greek island to visit in may

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Best Greek Islands In May (And Why Mykonos Isn’t Listed)

Which Greek islands are the best to visit in May? Here, we look at what's good, what's not, and give you some inside tips.

Traveling to Greece in May

May can be a good month to visit Greece, as there aren't so many tourists and the weather is just starting to warm up. There are a few caveats which you should probably be aware of though.

In this guide, I want to line up your expectations with a little reality so you can pick which Greek island to visit in May!

Greek Islands May Weather

Let's start by talking about what weather you can expect in May. Currently, I am writing this guide in Rhodes , one of the most southerly islands in Greece. Theoretically speaking, if anywhere in Greece has good weather in May it should be Rhodes!

And, it's partially true. The sky is clear blue outside, the sun is shining, and it's a lot warmer than the rest of Northern Europe.

It isn't perfect though. Right now, we have very strong winds meaning that even with the sun shining it can be a little chilly. And for me personally, it's too cold to swim in the sea!

The last couple of days were overcast, and while there was very little rain, we did get some. Right at the beginning of the month, we had great weather for a kayaking trip along the Rhodes coast.

What does all this mean?

Bottom line: While you might get sunny weather, you can't entirely plan for a beach holiday on the Greek islands in May. It's simply not reliable enough. This means that when it comes to choosing a Greek island in May, you'll want to think about other activities you can do when the beautiful beaches are not so appealing to be on.

Related: Best time to visit Greece

Hottest Greek islands To Go In May

The southern Dodecanese islands and Crete are likely to have the warmest weather if you're planning island hopping in May. The Cyclades islands and Ionian islands are likely still a little fresh for sea swimming, but will have pleasant enough weather all the same.

Are the Greek islands still closed in May?

Many people don't realise that the tourism industry all but closes down on the islands in the winter months. While the main tourist hubs might have some establishments open, the smaller villages are often closed until May.

As a result, May is a crossover month. Some places will be open (such as tavernas, hotels, shops etc), but others will be getting themselves ready by adding new paint, stocking up etc.

Bottom line: The Greek islands are not really a year round destination. You shouldn't expect everywhere to be open on the islands in May. Some tourist resorts which are party central in August may be ghost towns at the start of May!

Why May isn't a great time to go to Mykonos

Mykonos is one of the most popular Greek islands to visit. Images of beach parties and crazy nightlife have sold the island in the minds of many as a premier destination.

This means that people might be tempted to go to Mykonos in May. It kind of makes sense, I mean it's shoulder season, there's far fewer tourists, and of course it's cheaper!

The thing is though, very few nightclubs will be open, the beaches and sea might be too chilly to enjoy comfortably, and there's not a lot going on.

In my opinion, May can be a great time to experience Mykonos before the crowds arrive, especially if you want to go to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delos island .

Exploring the narrow streets of Mykonos Town is certainly more enjoyable without the summer crowds! If you want lively parties and beach life though, you won't really find it in May and you'll probably be disappointed.

What are the best Greek islands to visit in May?

Hopefully, I've explained well enough that you can't really expect reliable beach weather in May, and that party destinations such as Mykonos and Ios won't have many parties!

So, it's best to look at islands that have more to offer than just beaches and bars. Fortunately, Greece has dozens of them! Here's my choices of which Greek islands offer a good mix that makes them a good holiday destination in May.

After saying that Mykonos is not such a great island to visit in May, you might be surprised to see I've listed another Cycladic island to travel to in May instead.

The reason, is that Santorini and Mykonos are two very different islands . For example, no one really visits Santorini for the beaches , as they aren't that great when compared to those of other Greek islands. No one is really going to Santorini for the party scene either.

Instead, people who visit Santorini are doing so to experience the incredible Caldera views, the amazing sunsets, the fascinating history and to walk around Oia.

I also highly recommend the hike from Fira to Oia . All this can be done in May, and with fewer other visitors that the peak season months, it's a lot more enjoyable.

Of course, the weather in Santorini in May isn't as good as the summer months, and you can expect much cooler evenings (needing a light jacket!) than you might realize.

The main benefits though, are the cheaper prices, less crowds, no queues for and more availability of hotel rooms at sensible prices.

Rhodes in the Dodecanese is one of the best Greek islands to visit in May. It's a big island with lots to see and do, meaning if the weather is poor when you go, you'll always be able to find some activity to do to fill your days.

Rhodes Old Town is a great place to walk around, with plenty of medieval architecture and history to explore. The Palace of the Grand Master is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island, and definitely worth visiting!

The beaches around Rhodes are some of the best in Greece too, so if the forecast is good, you'll be able to get tanned early on in the year. Try Anthony Quinn Bay for some relaxing swim if the water is warm enough in May.

Too cold to swim? Why not try a kayaking tour in Rhodes instead. It was great fun!

Rhodes is one of the most popular destinations in the Dodecanese islands of Greece. If you're visiting in May, I'd suggest locating yourself in Rhodes town, as you'll be able to explore the medieval castle, and have easy access to other parts of the island using public transport or car hire.

Related: Best towns to visit in Greece

The largest island in Greece never closes down, and there is always something to do in May! Take you pick from archaeological sites, hiking trails, fishing villages, and mountain villages when you go to Crete .

Crete also has some of the best beaches in Greece, with the added bonus they are generally warmer than other parts of the country at that time of year. The average temperature in Crete in May is a balmy 23 degrees Celsius!

Crete also has a bustling nightlife, so if you're looking for some late-night fun in May, this island can provide. You'll find something almost all night long too if you're staying in Heraklion ! One note though – the Malia /Stalis area is likely to be very sleepy has it might not have opened yet.

Overall, Crete provides a great mix of things to do that are suitable for pretty much any traveler, whether it's their first trip to Greece or their fiftieth!

The Ionian islands are typically colder and a little rainier than other island groups, but you shouldn't discount Corfu in May. It's a beautiful island that has plenty to offer visitors, and the weather is often good enough to enjoy the beaches too.

Corfu town is a great place to walk around, with its Venetian architecture and lively cafes and bars. If you want to explore further afield, there are regular buses that run along the coast to other towns and villages.

Corfu is a great destination for those looking for an island with plenty to see and do. If you head here in May, I'd recommend renting a car so that you can explore the island at your leisure.

Hydra is a popular day trip destination from Athens, but you could consider staying here a little longer! The island is car-free, meaning you can walk anywhere on the island without worrying about traffic.

The atmosphere here is relaxed with a laid back vibe, and you really feel like you're getting away from it all when you visit Hydra.

In May, the beaches are quiet and a good place to relax. There are also some great hiking trails and places to explore too, so if the weather turns bad there's still plenty to do on this beautiful island!

You might not hear much about the island of Andros in Greece – but you can fill in the information gap by checking out our travel guide to Andros now available on Amazon !

Andros is a beautiful island located in the Cyclades, and it's a great place to visit in May. The weather is usually good at this time of year, so you can enjoy the beaches and the outdoors.

There are plenty of things to see and do on Andros , from exploring the medieval Venetian castle to visiting the beautiful villages dotted around the island. There's also some great hiking and cycling trails to enjoy if you want to get out in nature a little.

Overall, Andros is an undiscovered hidden gem of Greece that should be on your list for this May! Give it a try and I'm sure you won't be disappointed!

Islands of Greece in May FAQ

Readers looking to choose the best Greek island to visit outside of the summer months often ask questions similar to:

What is the best Greek island to visit in May?

Each of the islands listed have their own unique charms that make them perfect for a visitor in May. If you're looking for an island with plenty to do and see, I'd recommend Crete. If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, Hydra or Andros might be a better choice.

Is May a good time to visit the Greek islands?

The weather can be variable during the month of May, so it's best to visit an island with a lot of variety such as ancient sites and quaint villages for days the beach doesn't work out.

Where is warmest in Greece in May?

The warmest place in Greece in May is usually the island of Crete. However, the weather can be variable during this month, so it's best to check the forecast before you travel.

Is Greece warm in May?

Yes, Greece is warm in May, but the weather may not be as constantly hot or cloud free when compared to other times of year.

Which Greek island has the best sandy beaches?

The best Greek islands for sandy beaches include Mykonos, Ios, Naxos, and Milos.

May is a great time to visit Greece because you can enjoy the beaches on days with warmer temperatures and nature lovers will find it's a good time to explore the outdoors. Lower prices and smaller crowds also make May a good time to visit the Greek islands.

Just keep in mind that the weather can be a little unpredictable in May – don't book a holiday in May to the Greek islands based on the assumption that every taverna and hotel will be open, and you'll be lazing on beaches in sweltering heat. While it will be comfortably warm, it's up to the Greek Gods what weather you'll experience!

Have you visited any of these islands in May? Or do you have any recommendations for other great places to visit in Greece during this month? Let us know in the comments below!

• Cheapest Greek islands
• Hottest Greek Islands In April

2 thoughts on “Best Greek Islands In May (And Why Mykonos Isn’t Listed)”

Dae, We really enjoy your blog. As LONG time Greek visitors, 25 plus years, we have traveled to almost all the ‘suggested’ places. last summer while doing nothing but driving around, getting lost, we stumbled upon ancient Nemea and the old Olympic site. Very surprised to find out that they have resurrected the Nemea games. If I was not 83 years old, I would be in them this June 28! Still might.

Nemea is fantastic, isn’t it! Nothing quite beats following one of those brown antiquities road signs and discovering a whole new ancient city or site one hadn’t heard of!

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Spring Sunshine: The 5 Best Greek Islands to Visit in May

The best Greek islands to visit in May tend to be the more southerly in the country. That’s the part of Greece that warms up fastest as the winter recedes and cools down the latest when autumn approaches. But they aren’t the only options…

This list of five fantastic rocks in the seas of the Aegean also takes in the bucket-list draws of islands like Santorini and Mykonos; places that are best visited in the shoulder seasons if only to escape the crowds. Choosing those for the spring means you’ll get to wander idyllic whitewashed villages and wonder at UNESCO-tagged historic sites without having to jostle with crowds of camera-snapping visitors.

Generally speaking, we’d say that May is a fantastic time to explore this corner of southern Europe. It’s not quite as balmy as the peak summer months, but when said peak summer months can see temperatures topping 105 F (40 C), that’s not such a bad thing. May is also when the Greek beaches really start to shine, as the water warms and the rains drop away to allow for long tanning sessions. So, grab the sunscreen, let’s go…

Table of Contents

Crete is just about the perfect Greek island to visit in the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. The reason? It’s the furthest south of all the islands in the land of feta and moussaka, meaning it tends to get hotter earlier on in the year and stay hotter a little later.

And there’s more…Crete gets whacked by some pretty strong northern winds, known as Meltemi winds, in the middle of the summer months. They can be very blustery – like, blustery enough to knock over you Mythos beer by the poolside. Not good.

May is the perfect month for dodging both winds and catching the first uptick in the thermometer readings down in Crete. We’ve even been in early May before and spent day after day lazing on the sands of Chania – check out Falasarna Beach and Elafonisi for two of the very best options there!

The other thing we love about an early-season trip here is the fact that the nature trails are probably at their finest. Crete is arguably the best of all the Greek isles for hikers , since it’s got 2,400-meter-high mountains at its center and goat-stalked gorges like Samaria carving out its southern shores. It’s simply too hot (or windy) to conquer those in June or July. Not so in May.

Hydra is a member of the wonderful Saronic Gulf islands . They’re super-close to Athens, dotting the waters to the west and south of the big city. That means two things. First, they’re easy to get to after jetting into the capital. Second, they’re very popular with locals looking to escape the heat of the metropolis come the summer months.

May time is a sweet spot in the Saronic region. People in Athens aren’t sweating quite enough to warrant a trip out this way, the yachters haven’t descended en masse, but the weather tends to be balmy, clear, and crisp.

Hydra without the crowds is a beautiful, beautiful thing. This moody island has no cars, just donkeys. It’s a rugged, elongated rock, fringed by coves of pebbles that offer some of the clearest swimming waters this side of the Maldives. On higher ground, you can hike (and May is PERFECT for hiking) to the summit of Mount Eros to view the wide, open Aegean and visit the mystical Profitis Ilias Monastery.

There’s plenty to be said for simply sticking to Hydra Town, though. Artists and thinkers and musicians a la Leonard Cohen have come and gone from there over the decades, drawing inspiration from the echoing alleys and the church-topped streets. In mid spring, it’s a charming place to sip cold cocktails at sunset bars and enjoy long lunches on the marina side.

Everyone should see Santorini at least once in their life! Seriously – this is the bucket-list member of the Cyclades chain. Just think: A whole collapsed volcano that’s now flooded with the sky-blue waters of the Aegean Sea and topped with whitewashed villages that have luxury cave hotels. It’s proper travel-brochure fodder.

Sadly, the unique draws of Santorini have proved to be both a blessing and a curse. These days, this eye-wateringly wonderful island is positively packed to bursting with people. They not only clog up the lookout points and caldera-side hiking trails, but also crank up the prices to the point where it’s sort of normal to pay $250 a night for a midrange hotel. Yikes!

Thankfully, things aren’t quite that bad in May. Before the holidays start in earnest and the hordes of island hoppers hit the Greek seas, Santorini sees just a fraction of the visitor numbers it sees in June, July, and August. But the weather is still decent, and all the tour operators offering boat trips around the rugged coast should be open for business.

There’s also another kicker here, because Santorini is just about the perfect starting point for launching longer island-hopping trips . It’s right at the southern end of the Cyclades region and acts as a sort of unofficial island hub for the destinations there. Hop on a boat and you can be in Mykonos, in Milos, in Naxos, all in just two or three hours tops.

Ah, Mykonos – party, laze, party some more, sunsets you’ll never forget. Such is the routine on this happy-go-lucky island in the midst of the central Aegean. But Mykonos isn’t all hedonism, you know? The island hides UNESCO-tagged ancient history sites and some very secret beaches that hardly a soul will visit, all of which are best seen before the party season kicks in earnest.

So, plan a jaunt from here to Delos . It’s the tiny, pint-sized isle that’s right next door. Boats go every single day from the main harbor from May onwards, whisking visitors over the strait to see the ruins of an ancient sanctuary and treasury that was one of the starting points of the Athenian Empire.

Then there are the beaches. The south coast is livelier and more built up, but still relatively tame in May. You can share sand space with A-list celebs by choosing Psarrou or Ornos, both wispy, white coves with turquoise waters. That said, we still prefer the more feral bays of Ftelias and Agios Sostis up on the north coast.

Mykonos is also a great choice because it’s one of the best-connected islands in the Aegean. Ferries link it to just about every other major port in the Cyclades, and to the capital in Athens. It boasts its own airport, too, which has seasonal connections that tend to begin around the first of May or in late April each year.

Aside from Crete, Kos is likely to be the hottest island in Greece come May. It’s not unusual for thermometers to push past 75 degrees here in the middle of spring, and the locals even talk of occasional highs closer to the top end of the 80s! The stats show that rainfall also dips to a sixth of what it was only the month before, so there’s barely a drop of the wet stuff to contend with.

Kos gets its balmy climate and low rainfall from the fact that it’s tucked deep into the eastern Aegean. It’s nearer to the Turkish coast than it is to Athens, and further south than the vast majority of the Cyclades and the Ionian Islands.

The location also gives the island a unique cultural makeup – you’ll notice Turkic influences in the mezze dishes (wrapped vine leaves, hummus, and more) and get to see Game of Thrones­ -worthy historical sites like the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, a onetime base for Crusaders bound for the Holy Land.

Assuming – like us – you’re a bit more interested in the beaches than the history sites, we’ll say this: Kos has LOADS to keep you going. The south shoreline is the most popular. It’s home to ridiculously gorgeous inlets like Anthony Quinn Bay, where you can snorkel with parrotfish between the rocks, and the long sweep of Lindos Beach. Up north, things are wilder and quieter, with cliff-backed bays like Κοpria and Glifada coming up trumps.

The best Greek islands to visit in May – our verdict

Those looking for the best Greek islands to visit in May won’t need to look too hard. This part of Europe is riddled with fantastic springtime destinations that get bathed in high temps the moment April’s in the dust. The farthest south in the country are the hottest of all in May time. Those include Crete and Kos, where it’s possible to be in full beach mode by the first of the month. Further north, it’s mainly about escaping the crowds, to see epic isles like Santorini and Hydra without the high prices and over-busy historical sites.

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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THE BEST VALUE AND WARMEST GREEK ISLANDS IN MAY

The weather in Greece in May can be a bit variable as the air temperatures start to warm up but water temperatures are still cool, so working out which are the best Greek Islands in May can be a challenge.

There are some great places to visit particularly in the southern Aegean &   Dodecanese islands   and   Crete which have plenty to see and do, not just beaches and water-related activities. The prices are ‘shoulder’ and the crowds don’t really start to ramp up until June.

It is still Spring and there are many parts of Greece, especially on the   Mainland   in Central and Northern Greece and Crete where the spring flowers can be quite spectacular.  

  PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE?

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If you are feeling really overwhelmed you might like a Trip Consultation perhaps!?

And come join our private Facebook Group where you can ask questions and get advice from real travellers!

Note: This article may contain affiliate links. This means any booking made by you via a link creates a small commission that helps pay for the running costs of this site, at no further cost to you.  

The average maximum temperature in May is around  20°C/ 71 F. There will usually be cool breezes at night but exploring during the day can be quite pleasant without the searing temperatures or the crowds of Summer.

The 8 warmest greek islands to visit in may are:

  1. Crete – history, mythology, mountains, hiking, food and wine, wildflowers, waterfalls, (its got something for everyone!)

2. Rhodes – history, archaeology, day trips to Turkey, 4WD safaris

3. Karpathos – charming villages, mythology, hiking, caves

4. Santorini – archeology, wine and cooking, theatre and shows, sailing

5. Syros – history and culture, theatre, nightlife & casino, government

6. Hydra – art, history, hiking, tranquility, music, day trips to the Mainland

7. Aegina – pistachios, archaeology, hiking, wildflowers, day trips to other Saronic Islands and the Peloponnese

8. Kos – history, medicine, food, castles, day trips to Kalimnos or Leros

Greek Islands to avoid in may

Like many islands around the world, the Greek Islands are mostly seasonal and are one of the most popular summer destinations on the planet.

In Summer, islands that are heavily beach-focused such as Mykonos, Naxos, Milos, Elafonisos, and Koufonisia are at their prime with beach clubs, bars, and water sports in full swing but outside June to October they can be quiet with many activities, shops and attractions not fully operational.

In Mykonos , most beach bars and clubs open after Easter but the International DJs and world-renowned Beach parties don’t start happening until June.

Whilst water temperature is a very subject thing and has a lot to do with where you are from and what you are used to, many people find that May is not really beach weather and avoid islands that are heavily geared to the beach and the sea.

Crete is the southernmost island in Greece and enjoys average May daytime temperatures of 23 degrees/74 Fahrenheit making it one of the warmest greek islands to visit in May.

The water is usually warm enough for swimming and the weather is usually calm, with occasional showers.

Crete is also at the tail end of any Meltemi winds that may start to blow at this time of year so transport and activities are rarely disrupted.

Being shoulder season there are lots of great accommodation specials and crowds are relatively low at the many popular sites and activities too. Boat trips to Balos Beach and Spingalonga will have started running and visiting Knossos Palace is pleasant even on sunny days.

Crete is also one of the most popular hiking destinations in Greece so Spring weather makes this quite bearable.

How to get to Crete

There are 3 airports in Crete –   Heraklion   and   Chania   are both International airports and have regular flights to Athens, Thessaloniki and multiple international destinations, mostly in Europe.

There is also a small domestic airport at Lassithi which is close to popular Sitia.

Many people also arrive by Ferry. The main terminal is in Heraklion but there is also a port in Chania and both have regular connections with Athens. In Summer there are also ferries from the Capital to Sitia and Rethymnon.

Where to stay in Crete

If you are short on time then Chania or Rethymnon are the best places to stay.  Heraklion too but the others are much prettier.

If you have longer it’s a good idea to split your stay between say Chania for the East and somewhere like Agios Nikolaos or Elounda for the West.

If you have even more time and/or really want to get away from it all then head to the south where some places are still only accessible by boat.

For couples :

In Chania,   Monastery Estate Venetian Harbour   is stunning and right near the old town and the beautiful Venetian Harbour. Amazing views and hot tubs too!

In Rethymnon, it’s hard to beat   Dyo Suites   which has suites with amazing sea views and indoor jacuzzis, and   Vista Del Porto Luxury Suites   are very similar. R imondi Boutique Hotel   is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World Group and is right in the heart of the Old Town near   Pepi Boutique Hotel   which is Adults Only and also incredible.

For families and groups :

Kores Boutique Houses   in Chania have big 3-bedroom villas that can sleep up to 6 people or you could rent adjoining two-bedroom apartments at   Centro Storico   or   Spring Apartments . Hotels like   Epavli Boutique   and   SanSal   are very experienced in looking after large groups and have fantastic swimming pools too.

Elois Suites   in Rethymnon Old Town have 2 bedrooms apartments that sleep 4 or   Made of Blue Luxury Suites   have 3 bedrooms Villas.   Calmare   is a new and very chic property on the beachfront near the OId Town and has family rooms.

In addition to the stunning landscapes and intriguing archaeological attractions, Rhodes also enjoys a lively cultural scene with lots of great cafes and restaurants, as well as plenty of nightlife. With a longer tourist season than most islands and a popular cruise ship destination, Rhodes is enjoyed by visitors year-round.

Located in the Dodecanese Islands, Rhodes is the third largest island in Greece and has something for everyone and all budgets.

Its history is particularly fascinating having been occupied over the centuries by the Byzantines, Ottomans, Romans and the Knights Hospitaller.

Perhaps most famously, it is believed to have been the site of the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today you can also visit the impressive Acropolis of Lindos, dating back to 300 BC, which towers over the charming town of Lindos and the beautiful beaches of St.Pauls Bay next door.

There is also the Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes Old Town built in part by the Byzantine Empire in the 7th Century and then by the Knights Hospitaller , a Medieval Catholic Order, in around 1309. If you are a history lover or keen to explore   ancient sites about Greek mythology then Rhodes is a perfect choice.

There are also a lot of great beaches and because of the warmer weather, the beach bars have a long season which runs from April until November each year.

How to get to Rhodes

Rhodes has a small international airport that has flights from some European destinations like England year-round and numerous flights from all over Europe and further afield in Summer. The are daily flights to Athens and regular flights to Thessaloniki in summer too.

There is a large ferry port with connections to the other Dodecanese islands and on to the Cyclades, Northern Aegean Islands and Crete as well as Athens. There are also regular connections to Turkey.

Where to stay in Rhodes

If visiting between outside summer then the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhodes Old Town is a great choice so you can enjoy the history and learn about the rich background of the island. Here we love In Camera Art Boutique Hotel and Bibliotheque , which has 3-bedroom apartments, perfect for families and groups.

If you’re still keen to make the most of the first warm days of the year by the beach then Bellevue on the Beach Suites are fantastic or further out at Faliraki is Ammades All Suites Adults Only resort with an amazing beachfront swimming pool. All-inclusive fans love Atlantica Imperial Resort.

If you’re looking for both history and beach then Lindos ticks both boxes and is considered one of the most beautiful spots on the island. F Charm Adults Only Hotel is superb or Villa Aphrodite is a stunning 3 bedroom Villa in heart of the old town with a big terrace and sea views.

Located between Crete and Rhodes is Karpathos, an island that actually has the highest temperatures of all the Greek Islands. It is the second largest of the Dodecanese Islands and has a population of around 7000 people.

With daytime averages usually around 26 degrees/80 Fahrenheit and little rain, this island is off the beaten path and is a very authentic island experience. There are beautiful beaches, charming villages and great hiking paths as well as hidden coves and caves, and the neighbouring islet of Saria, which is a popular playground in Summer.

Due to its relatively remote location Karpathos has retained some of its unique customs and traditions which are evident in the costumes, recipes and even the dialect. It also has a rich and often bloody history like many of the islands in the area and in Greek Mythology it was believed to be the birthplace of the Titans.

This is an island that is not only one of the best and warmest Greek Islands to visit in May but is relatively untouched by mass tourism and is perfect for rest and tranquility.

How to get to Karpathos

There is a small airport on Karpathos so it’s possible to fly from Athens, or fly to Rhodes and take a ferry from there.

Where to stay in Karpathos

Couples and Solo: Bella Vista Suites in Karpathos Town have big 1 bedroom apartments with amazing sea views.

Groups and Families : Hotel Finiki View in Foinikion is a very affordable small hotel with a big pool for the kids. If you would prefer a self-contained house then check out Villa Anastasia in Voladha which can sleep up to 7 people and has a pool and sweeping views across the island. Ardani Paradise Villa in Amoopi is also excellent with 2 bedrooms that sleep 4 in 3 beds and a jacuzzi with stunning sea views. Perfect for cool October nights!

Santorini is a bucket list destination for most people and for good reason.

Despite the cruise ships and the crowds, it remains one of those places that not only meets your expectations but probably exceeds them. The views truly are the stuff of legends and it is little wonder it is so popular with honeymooners.

There are a surprising amount of   things to do on Santorini   with beaches, wineries, hot springs, great shopping, hiking and some of the world’s most iconic and photographed sunsets.

The beaches on Santorini are volcanic and not the best in Greece. But with so many other things to see and do it attracts people with a wide variety of interests and for that reason, many areas operate year-round.

In October it pays to get a room with a jacuzzi rather than a pool, especially for the cool nights later in the month,

How to get to Santorini

The small   international airport   in Santorini has several flights to Athens a day as well as regular flights in summer from other European destinations like Rome and England. Check flight schedules   HERE.

There are also many ferries each day, year-round.

TIP : Both the port and the airport can be quite nuts in summer and there can be long waits for the cable car, taxis, and   donkeys . It REALLY pays to have a   private transfer   waiting for you!

Where to stay in Santorini

There are 18 towns and villages in Santorini. Most visitors stay in just 6 of them but particularly the Capital, Fira or the much-photographed Oia or Imerovigli. All of these are perched on the Caldera and look out over the volcano, with incredible sunsets.

Some people also like to stay in the beachside towns of Kamari or Perissa which are more affordable alternatives.

For couples & solo : It’s hard to beat  Santorini Supreme for luxury, privacy, and increible views from the private pool. Sweet Peony is also gorgeous and quite good value compared to other villas of its standard.  For something a bit different look at   Pyrgos 1870 winery.

For families and groups :   White Harmony Suites   have 2 bedroom suites or   Theoxenia Boutique Hotel   have quad rooms and are not far from, dare I say it, McDonald’s.

In Oia, Armeni Village is very central and accessible and they ha ve loft-style rooms with daybeds as well. For groups wanting something really special have a look at this   amazing Windmill   which sleeps 6, or   Porcelain Pegasus villa   with its own big pool.

Further reading:

3 days in Santorini – a complete itinerary

How to get from Santorini to Mykonos

Winter in Santorini

Hiking in Santorini  

Santorini on a Budget

Santorini with kids

Located just 2 hours southeast of  Athens  by Fast Ferry or north of  Santorini  is the capital of the Cyclades Islands, Syros.

Also known as Siros or Syra this island is very different from the others in the group with its colorful neo-classical buildings and many impressive Government buildings, museums, theatres, and even a casino!

This is the most populated of the Cyclades islands and is the Administrative hub with all Government services including law courts, a big hospital, and the biggest city hall in Greece, it makes it a year-round destination. There is even a stunning Theatre , the Opera and a Casino !

Syros was one of the only Cycladic islands not occupied at some point by the Ottomans so its history is quite unique and fascinating. It was largely developed by the Venetians and the French, hence the beautiful architecture, and to this day its inhabitants are 50% Greek Orthodox and 50% Catholic.

While there are some good beaches on Syros if it is cool there is plenty of other things to do due to its many cultural interests. It’s a treasure chest for history buffs and is a very affordable island too with fantastic, authentic tavernas and cafes.

May Day (May 1st) is a big public holiday across all of Greece and Syros in particular really celebrates with a number of festivities and parades, mostly around the Town Square.

How to get to Syros

Syros has a domestic airport with year-round flights, especially during the tourist season. All flights are to or from Athens and take just 25 minutes.

Syros is well connected by boat, and reaching it by sea is simple. The ferry from Piraeus, the main port of Athens, takes between 2.5 and 4 hours depending on which ferry you book.

Syros can also be reached via ferry services from another Athens port, Rafina, which runs from May to October. This daily service takes 1.5 hours.

There are also a number of different boat connections to many of the other Cycladic islands, such as Crete, Thessaloniki, Skiathos, and the Dodecanese islands. 

Where to stay in Syros

For couples & Solo:  The new   DIIO Suites   have amazing views of the port and are very well priced. Also with amazing views, but this time of Verona bay lined with gorgeous colorful neo-classical buildings, it’s hard to beat   Pafsilipon Suites with gorgeous rooms decked out with every conceivable amenity.

You can also find hotels such as charming Wind Tales situated high on a hilltop in medieval Ano Syros. If you are looking for a bit of a splurge the stunning   Aristide Hotel   is a design dream and, in our opinion, one of the most stylish hotels in the Greek Islands.

For families and groups :   F or something really unique, situated high on the hill in Ano Syros up behind Ermoupoli is  Anemomylos Windmill which is a fair way from the center of town but with incredible, panoramic views. 

Galissas is one of the most popular of Syros’ tourist resorts and has one of the best and biggest beaches and the best sunsets on the island. Here Dolphin Bay Resort  is very popular with families or  Caviri Apartments , which is surrounded by nature.  

Further reading: A Complete Guide to Syros

Situated in the   Saronic Islands , Hydra is one of the wealthiest islands in Greece and is where the original ship-owning families built neo-classical mansions on the hills. The locals fought in the Greek War of Independence, while the island’s ships and wealth supported the war.

Hydra was home to a number of famous people including one of Greece’s most important 20th-century painters -Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas Painters and poets such as Seferis and Katsimbalis. Katsimbalis was visited by Author Henry Miller, who was then visited by Australian playwright George Johnston and his wife Charmain Clift who moved to the island and were joined by famous Canadian musician Leonard Cohen , who went on to live in Hydra for 20 years.

Nowadays, Hydra remains a much-loved hotspot but is largely undeveloped. This is partly due to stringent planning regulations, which have ensured that the island’s quaint charm remains intact. As a result, Hydra oozes charm and charisma, with donkey carts and quaint, renovated houses spilling down the hills to the harbour.

While Hydra is calm and traditional, there are also some great clifftop beach bars that are very popular with Athenians on the weekends. Hydra has some good beaches accessible by water taxi but is also a great place for people seeking history and culture who aren’t looking for the beach at all.

Also, because the Saronic Islands tightly hug the Saronic gulf they are the most protected in Greece in terms of wind and bad weather. It is highly unlikely you will experience seasickness in this area and ferry cancellations are not common.

How to get to Hydra

There is no airport on Hydra or, in fact, any of the Saronic islands. The closest one is   Athens so a trip to the Saronic Island will always involve the sea, even if you drive to one of the small mainland ports on the Argolis peninsula and catch a small ferry over.

From Pireaus Port Hellenic Seaways Flying Dolphin and Hydrofoils run daily trips to Hydra and several times a day in Summer. Tickets are usually €28 per person and the journey takes 90-120 minutes.

From Varkiza Marina in Athens, you can pre-book a   sea taxi   to take you to Hydra Town, Kamini, Vlychos, Plakes or Mandraki. This takes 2 hours and costs €500 one way for up to 8 passengers.

Where to stay in Hydra

Most visitors to Hydra stay in Hydra Town (also known as Idra). It’s impossible to land on the island without being struck by the beauty of Hydra Town. The town is wrapped around the island’s port, which is also one of the most beautiful sights on the island.

Couples and Solo:  A great mid -range hotel is the very charming Hotel Sophia right on the harbour overlooking everything. For a splurge check out Hydrea Exclusive Hospitality.

Groups and families: Villa ADA is a lovely 3-bedroom house at the back of Hydra Town with sea views and a big terrace. It can sleep 6 people plus a child or two and there are 3 bathrooms as well which is a bonus.

A DAY TRIP TO HYDRA

If you are short on time it is quite possible to do a day trip from Athens to the Saronic island. You can either use the ferry system as mentioned above or join a   full-day cruise   that visits Poros and Aegina as well and includes lunch!

There is also a   VIP cruise  option which includes your transfers in Athens, priority boarding and access to a VIP lounge on the boat.

Further reading: A Complete Guide to Hydra

The island of Aegina is also located i n the Saronic group of islands , and is only one hour by ferry from Athens. It has good weather year-round and is relatively protected from the famous Meltemi wind that can blow hard on some parts of the Aegean.

With its mix of traditional Greek coastal towns, ancient history, beaches, nightlife and great food, Aegina is the best of the Greek islands rolled into one.

The bonus is that, unlike other islands, it’s practically on Athens’ doorstep, making it easy to reach, and it’s very affordable, too. In fact, a lot of people who live on Aegina work in Athens and commute every day. It’s not as glamorous as it’s neighbours   Hydra   and Spetses but it is also a lot cheaper and even more accessible.

Aegina is renowned for its Pistachio’s, and the Temple of Aphea is one of the most important in the country. It’s an authentic island that is perfect for visiting year-round and perfect for May.

How to get to Aegina

Being so close to Athens visiting is fairly straightforward.

It is also often combined with visits to other Saronic islands such as Poros,   Hydra   and Spetses. In fact there is a very popular   3-island cruise   that combines the three on a day trip.

There are four ferry companies that run between Athens’ port, Piraeus, and Aegina, all of which leave from the east side of Piraeus Port at Gate 8. Ferry companies are Anes Ferries, Blue Star Ferries, Saronic Ferries and Aegean Flying Dolphins.

Where to stay in Aegina

The main town on the island of Aegina is also called Aegina. This is the capital and principal port and therefore pretty busy with tourists, hotels, restaurants and things to do. The whole town’s a picture-perfect place, and staying here means taking long walks along the harbour, stopping off for a pick-me-up at one of the town’s many cafes, and enjoying fresh fish in a taverna. 

Solo and couples: Here we recommend staying at  Plaza Hotel , a great budget choice right across from the beach with amazing sunset views or the charming Aeginitikon Arhontikon Boutique Hotel which is in an historic building .

Perdika is a village surrounding a lovely bay and has some great hotels such as   Ilioperato  and  LaLiBay resort and spa  which is a little further around the cove.

Families and groups: If travelling in a group  Los Pistachios is on the outskirts of town and is a truly amazing new 2 bedroom Villa with a small pool, a gym , a beautiful garden and even a fireplace and can easily sleep 6. Right in town is another fantastic place, Feidiou1 , a renovated 2 bedroom apartment in a converted mansion by the Port.

Further Reading: A Complete Guide to Aegina  

The island of Kos, in the Aegean Sea, is the third largest and second most populous island in the Greek   Dodecanese Islands . Located just over 2 hours from   Rhodes   by ferry, Kos also has an   International Airport   so it’s easy to see why so many many people choose Kos holidays as their summer escape.

Once you arrive, you’ll be impressed by how Kos maintains its small beach town vibe without lacking in any of the comforts you want on a vacation.

Kos is where the great Greek physician Hippocrates is from, who is known as the father of medicine and the reason for the Hippocratic Oath taken by Doctors to this day. He was born on the island around 460BC and used to teach his students under a big Plane Tree in Kos Town, which you can still visit today. It is also believed to be where Saint Paul taught the word of Christ centuries later.

From May to September there are various festivals and recitations in Kos honouring Hippocrates and his oath. 

On top of this, the island boasts some of the region’s most beautiful white sandy beaches alongside a myriad of archaeological sites, such as the Sanctuary of Asklepio (son of Apollo) and a castle built by the Knights of St.John,  just ripe for exploration. Between the fantastic weather, laid-back feel, incredible beaches, and some of the best   Greek food   you could ask for, Kos is a paradise just waiting to be explored.

How to get to Kos

Flying to kos.

If you aren’t anywhere near the islands there’s no need to worry because Kos has an airport – the   Kos Island International Airport   – which receives flights from not only all over Greece but many different destinations.

Flying in from Athens takes just an hour’s flight time. The airport is buzzing in the summer when primarily British and German airlines are flying in daily to serve the holiday-goers flying in from abroad.

The airport is just a half-hour drive from Kos City, and you can easily find a taxi. Alternatively, there is a public bus running frequently, and the stop is just outside the main entrance.

FERRY TO KOS

If you are island-hopping, Kos has ferry routes running with four of the surrounding islands – Rhodes, Patmos, Leros, and Kalymnos.

Ferry rides are a little longer and even the closest island, Patmos, is a three-hour journey (a beautiful one, though).

There are ferries from Athens too, but this would really qualify as taking the scenic route since that trip will be around 11 hours. Be sure to book a cabin on the Blue Star and enjoy a mini-cruise!

The nearby Turkish town of Bodrum also has a ferry route to Kos, if you’re approaching from the east.

Where to stay in Kos

The majority of the hotels in Kos are in the island’s main city, also called Kos. The rest are largely concentrated along the northern coast. Tourism is the island’s biggest industry, alongside farming and exports of Greek goods like figs, almonds, olives, and tomatoes, so there are a surprisingly large number of hotel options in the main city.

Albergo Gelsomino Hotel  is a beautifully restored building-turned-hotel sitting right at the water’s edge on the eastern shores of Kos, with the beach only steps away. A section of the beach is private for hotel guests only, complete with comfortable chairs and beach umbrellas.

Blue Lagoon City Hotel   offers luxury at a low price so great for travelers on a budget. Open year-round even during the tourism off-season, the Blue Lagoon is a few minutes from the beach but compensates by having an indoor and outdoor pool, gym facility, and spa with sauna.

ELSEWHERE ON KOS  

Cirillo Family Hotel   is a small, family-run hotel in the former fishing village of Mastichari. It is set in a private area surrounded by gardens, just a few minutes walk from the beach. Rooms and suites are comfortable, decorated in an Aegean style, and with sea, garden, or mountain views.

Origin Hotel Apartments   is located in the popular southern coastal town of Kardamena. Suites are comfortable, modern, but without the frills, offering great accommodation at a low rate. The hotel is located close to the beach and also close to the airport. There is an outdoor pool as well.

OKU Kos   will make you feel like you’ve stepped into paradise. This is an adult-only hotel with a private beach and outdoor pool, as well as a well-known boutique restaurant. The overall decor is luxury with a laid-back, island feel – the ample straw parasols, stonework, palm trees, and private villas give it a Bali or Tulum vibe.

Further Reading: A Complete Guide to Kos  

Events in Greece in May

May Day /Labor Day – May 1

Protomagia is one of the biggest holidays of the year and cause for much celebration across the country. This is also Labour Day so public transport does not usually run and many shops and attractions are closed. Large demonstrations are often held, particularly in Athens where they culminate in Syntagma Square.

The Day of the Holy Spirit

This runs for the 50 days after Orthodox Easter ( so a different time each year) and celebrates when the Holy Spirit asked the Apostles to spread the word of Christ. Usually, schools and universities are closed.

The Unification of the Ionian Islands – May 21 (Corfu)

Anniversary of the Battle of Crete – May 21 (Crete)

The feast days for Saint Constantine and Saint Helena – May 21 (all over) 

Orthodox Pentecost – May 28/29

The Paleological Festival of Mystras – May 29 (Mystras)

Festival of Saint Theodosia – May 29 (Akrotiri, Santorini)

The Hadjipetria Festival – end of the month ( Trikala)

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Best Greek Islands to visit in May

Visiting the Greek islands in May has many advantages. Generally, there are far fewer tourists, the weather is milder (great for hiking and outdoor pursuits) and you can still swim in the blue waters of the Aegean – though it might be a little colder! Even better, traveling in the shoulder season is generally cheaper for travel and accommodation than it would be in the peak season! Now, it’s just working out where to go.

In this post, we’ll take a look at six of the best Greek islands to visit in May. Though many Greek islands operate seasonally, most are fully open by this point and are gearing up for the summer rush!

Which Greek Islands to Visit in May?

Rising out of the Aegean Sea, the whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches of Santorini are one of the most evocative images of Greece. Four villages on this island in the Cyclades are built into the broken caldera of a volcano which is still active to this day! It’s one of the most popular destinations in Greece, but when is the best time to visit?

Though Santorini is open all year round, visiting in winter isn’t ideal as a lot of restaurants and accommodation aren’t fully operational. Likewise, coming here in the height of summer, you’ll find the narrow winding streets to be thronged with tourists, and you won’t get a sunset photo without someone getting in the way!

Visiting Santorini in May means you won’t have to queue to sample the unique and fresh island cuisine, and you will have plenty of space to spread out on the island’s volcanic-sand beaches.

Along with Santorini, Mykonos is another of the most popular Cycladic islands. It boasts a rugged and rocky coastline punctuated by sandy beaches, as well as picturesque and colorful fishing villages where you can find wonderful tavernas serving fresh and delicious seafood.

If you want the image of Mykonos from the Fleet Foxes song, rather than the beach parties and lively parties that happen most nights during the summer, then you’re in luck. Mykonos is up there with the best Greek islands to visit in May.

Though the nightlife is active, it’s not as hedonistic and wild as the summer months, meaning that the island is quiet and charming. The average temperature is usually around 23 degrees, and there are eleven hours of sunshine a day. Plenty of time to swim, and the water should be warm enough to take a refreshing dip!

Crete gets more than 300 days of sunshine throughout the year, and it’s open to tourism throughout the year. You can even visit in winter should you wish to, although it’s definitely not recommended to swim in the sea then! By May, the waters of Balos Beach (and others around the island) are warm enough thanks to Crete’s location near North Africa.

One of the top activities to do on the island is hiking – Samara Gorge is the longest gorge in Europe, and hiking through the national park that surrounds it is a wonderful way to spend your time on the island. Although there are shaded points in the gorge, it gets very hot and uncomfortable during the summer months, but that’s not something you’ll have to worry about if visiting in May.

Rhodes is another of the Greek islands that are open to tourism all year round. Though some of the resort towns, such as Pefkos and Phaliraki, will be quiet, the historic capital of the Dodecanese Islands has more to offer than just sun, sea, and sand.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed island capital Rhodes Town is a charming place to visit, and it boasts medieval and Byzantine architecture. There are also scores of restaurants, bars, and nightlife that you can make the most of during your trip.

Prefer to stay away from the main town? Head to Lindos. This charming, whitewashed town on the side of a hill is guarded over by its Acropolis. The Acropolis overlooks the heart-shaped St Paul’s Bay, a favorite romantic spot of couples visiting the island. By May, the water is certainly warm enough to swim there.

With an average of 291 hours of sun in May, this is a great time to visit Hydra. One of the Saronic Islands, further north than the Cyclades and Crete but with a water temperature of 18 degrees, you could still go for a swim here.

The car-free island is just an hour and a half from Athens, so it makes an ideal day trip for those visiting the Greek capital outside of Greece’s traditional high season.

Those looking for a longer stay are often inspired by Hydra’s beauty, and it has previously been a popular spot for famous artists including Leonard Cohen and David Shrigley.

Last of all is the most northern of the islands on this list. But don’t be put off, Corfu is still up there with the best Greek islands in May. In fact, it welcomes tourists throughout the year – many of whom come to visit Corfu’s pretty main town.

Even if the water is too cold for swimming in this Ionian paradise, you can wander through the ancient Roman village Kassiopi, admire the Venetian fortresses in Corfu Old Town, or go for a drive through the island’s mountainous interior.

Between September and June, Corfu does get moderate rainfall, and of all the islands on this list, Corfu has the highest chance of rainfall. How else would it be so verdant? 

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Greek Island

Reveales: the Hottest Greek Islands to Visit in May

posted by Nikos Tsakiris on July 9, 2023 // last updated on July 14, 2023

May is a great time to visit Greece, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. If you’re wondering which Greek islands to visit in May, you’re in luck. There are several islands that offer warm weather and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

According to Greece Travel Secrets, the eight warmest Greek islands to visit in May are Crete, Rhodes, Karpathos, Kos, Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros. Each of these islands has its own unique charm and attractions, from the history and mythology of Crete to the nightlife of Mykonos. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s an island that’s perfect for you.

Best Greek Islands to Visit in May

May is a great month to visit Greece, with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Here are three of the best Greek islands to visit in May:

Santorini is famous for its stunning caldera views, white-washed buildings, and romantic sunsets. In May, the island is less crowded, and the weather is warm enough to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. Some of the top things to do in Santorini in May include:

• Visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site to see the ancient Minoan city
• Take a sunset cruise around the caldera
• Explore the island’s wineries and taste the local wines
• Relax on the black sand beaches of Perissa and Kamari

Mykonos is known for its vibrant nightlife, picturesque streets, and beautiful beaches. In May, the island is less crowded, and the party scene is not as wild as in the peak summer months. Some of the top things to do in Mykonos in May include:

• Explore the charming streets of Mykonos Town
• Relax on the beaches of Psarou and Super Paradise
• Visit the archaeological site of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Enjoy a sunset cocktail at Little Venice

Crete is the largest and most diverse of the Greek islands, with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. In May, the island is less crowded, and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Some of the top things to do in Crete in May include:

• Visit the ancient Palace of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
• Hike the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest canyons
• Taste the local cuisine, such as dakos, dolmades, and fresh seafood
• Relax on the beaches of Elafonisi and Balos

Overall, these three Greek islands offer a great mix of culture, history, nature, and relaxation in May.

Other Greek Islands to Consider

If you’re looking for a quieter getaway in May, there are several other Greek islands that you could consider visiting. Here are a few options to consider:

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades and is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and ancient ruins. In May, the island is less crowded than in the peak summer months, making it a great time to explore the island’s many attractions. The average temperature in May is around 22°C, and there are around 10 hours of sunshine per day.

Some of the top things to do on Naxos include visiting the ancient temple of Apollo, exploring the Venetian castle in Naxos Town, and hiking in the island’s beautiful countryside. There are also plenty of opportunities for water sports, such as windsurfing and kiteboarding, as well as excellent local cuisine to enjoy.

Paros is another beautiful island in the Cyclades that is well worth a visit in May. The island is known for its stunning beaches, charming villages, and excellent cuisine. In May, the weather is warm and sunny, with an average temperature of around 22°C and around 10 hours of sunshine per day.

Some of the top things to do on Paros include exploring the charming villages of Naoussa and Lefkes, visiting the ancient marble quarries in Marathi, and relaxing on the island’s beautiful beaches. There are also plenty of opportunities for water sports, such as windsurfing and sailing, as well as excellent local cuisine to enjoy.

Corfu is a beautiful island in the Ionian Sea that is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and rich history. In May, the weather is warm and sunny, with an average temperature of around 23°C and around 10 hours of sunshine per day.

Some of the top things to do on Corfu include visiting the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Corfu, exploring the island’s many beautiful beaches, and visiting the Achilleion Palace, which was once the summer home of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports, as well as excellent local cuisine to enjoy.

Overall, there are plenty of other Greek islands to consider visiting in May, each with its own unique attractions and charm. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an adventurous island adventure, there’s sure to be an island that’s perfect for you.

Why May is a Great Time to Visit the Greek Islands

Are you planning a trip to the Greek Islands? May is a great time to visit! The weather is warm and sunny, with little rain, making it perfect for exploring the islands and enjoying the beaches. Plus, you’ll avoid the summer crowds and get better deals on accommodation and activities. Here are some reasons why May is a great time to visit the Greek Islands:

Perfect Weather

In May, the weather in the Greek Islands is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 27°C. The sea temperature is around 20°C, so it’s not too cold for swimming and water activities. Compared to the hot and crowded summer months, May offers a more comfortable climate for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and beach hopping.

Fewer Crowds

May is considered the shoulder season in the Greek Islands, which means fewer tourists and lower prices. You’ll have more space and time to explore the islands without the crowds and queues. Some popular destinations, like Mykonos, may not be fully open in May, but you’ll still find plenty of things to do and see on other islands like Crete, Rhodes, and Karpathos.

Spring Blooms

May is a great time to see the islands in full bloom. You’ll find wildflowers, olive groves, and citrus trees in full bloom, making the landscapes even more beautiful. The island of Crete is particularly known for its spring blooms, with fields of poppies, daisies, and anemones covering the hillsides.

Festivals and Events

May is also a month of festivals and events in the Greek Islands. You can experience the local culture and traditions by attending events like the Flower Festival in Naxos, the Battle of Crete Memorial in Chania, or the Wine Festival in Santorini. These events are a great way to learn more about the history and customs of the islands and meet the locals.

In conclusion, May is a great time to visit the Greek Islands. You’ll enjoy perfect weather, fewer crowds, spring blooms, and cultural events. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or culture, the Greek Islands have something for everyone in May.

How to Get to the Greek Islands

Getting to the Greek Islands can be done in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some of the most common methods:

Direct flights leave regularly from Athens Airport to the Greek islands. Flight times range from 40 minutes to just over an hour, depending on your destination. Some of the most popular airlines that fly to the Greek Islands include:

• Aegean Airlines
• Olympic Air

Taking a ferry to the Greek Islands is a popular option for those who want to experience the journey as well as the destination. Ferries leave from various ports in Athens, including Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrion. The duration of the trip can vary greatly depending on your destination, with some islands taking just a few hours to reach, while others may take up to a full day.

Here are some of the most popular ferry companies that operate in Greece:

• Blue Star Ferries
• Hellenic Seaways

It’s worth noting that ferry schedules can be affected by weather conditions, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast before you travel. Additionally, some ferry routes may not operate during the low winter season, so be sure to check availability before planning your trip.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious way to travel to the Greek Islands, a cruise may be the perfect option. There are many cruise companies that offer itineraries that include stops at various Greek Islands. Some of the most popular cruise lines that operate in Greece include:

• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line

Cruises can be a great way to see multiple islands in one trip, while also enjoying all the amenities and entertainment that a cruise ship has to offer. However, they can also be more expensive than other methods of travel, so be sure to factor in the cost when planning your trip.

Where to Stay on the Greek Islands

When planning a trip to the Greek Islands in May, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is where to stay. With so many islands to choose from, each with its own unique character and attractions, it can be overwhelming to decide. Here are some tips to help you choose the best island and accommodation for your needs.

Consider Your Budget

The cost of accommodation can vary greatly from island to island, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing where to stay. Some islands, such as Mykonos and Santorini, are known for their luxury hotels and high prices, while others, like Crete and Rhodes, offer more affordable options.

Look for Location

The location of your accommodation can greatly impact your experience on the island. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, consider staying in a secluded area away from the main tourist hubs. If you want to be in the heart of the action, look for accommodation in a bustling town or near popular attractions.

Choose Your Island

Each Greek Island has its own unique charm, so it’s important to choose one that suits your interests and needs. Crete is perfect for those who love history and hiking, while Mykonos is known for its lively nightlife. Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets, and Rhodes offers a mix of ancient history and modern attractions.

Consider Your Accommodation Type

Greek Islands offer a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional guesthouse or villa. For those who want to be pampered, there are plenty of luxury resorts and spas to choose from.

In conclusion, when choosing where to stay on the Greek Islands in May, consider your budget, location, island of choice, and accommodation type. With a little research and planning, you can find the perfect place to stay and make the most of your Greek Island adventure.

What to Pack for a Trip to the Greek Islands

If you’re planning a trip to the Greek Islands in May, you’ll want to make sure you pack appropriately for the warm weather, potential rain, and activities you plan to do. Here are some essential items to consider packing for your trip:

The Greek Islands are known for their beautiful beaches and warm weather, so be sure to pack plenty of lightweight, breathable clothing. Here are some clothing items to consider:

• Sunhat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun
• Swimsuits and cover-ups for the beach
• Light, airy dresses or shorts and t-shirts for exploring the islands
• A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or unexpected rain
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring the islands

When it comes to toiletries, it’s always a good idea to pack travel-sized items to save space in your luggage. Here are some items to consider:

• Sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the strong sun
• Insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other bugs
• Aloe vera gel or lotion to soothe sunburned skin
• Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal hygiene items

Electronics

While you may be tempted to unplug and enjoy the beautiful scenery, here are some electronics to consider bringing:

• Camera or smartphone with a good camera to capture memories
• Portable charger to keep your devices charged on-the-go
• Adapter for charging your devices in Greece

Miscellaneous

Here are some other items to consider packing:

• Lightweight backpack or beach bag to carry your essentials while exploring
• Cash or credit card for purchasing souvenirs or food
• Travel insurance to protect against unexpected events
• Any necessary medications, including a basic first aid kit

By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for a fantastic trip to the Greek Islands in May.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best greek islands to visit in may.

Crete, Kos, and Rhodes are some of the warmest Greek islands to visit in May. These islands have average temperatures of around 24°C and plenty of sunshine.

What is the weather like on the Greek islands in May?

May is a great time to visit the Greek islands as the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures of around 24°C. There is little chance of rain, and the clear blue skies make for perfect beach weather.

What clothes should I wear in Greece in May?

Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for Greece in May. It is also a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the islands.

Is Greece still warm in May?

Yes, Greece is still warm in May, with average temperatures of around 24°C. It is a great time to visit the islands before the peak summer crowds arrive.

Which Greek island is the hottest in June?

Santorini is one of the hottest Greek islands in June, with average temperatures of around 28°C. However, it can also be quite crowded during this time, so it may be worth considering other islands if you prefer a quieter holiday.

Where is the warmest place in Greece in May?

The southern island of Kos is one of the warmest places in Greece in May, with average temperatures of around 24°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine. It is a great destination for those looking for a beach holiday with plenty of warm weather.

Hailing from the historic city of Thessaloniki, Nikos Tsakiris is a passionate explorer, seasoned writer, and co-founder of Greek Island, the definitive travel blog for the Greek Islands.

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Greece in May: Weather, Travel Tips, Best Greek islands to go

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In this article

A vacation to Greece in May is a great option for many reasons. The weather is warm and sunny, hotels are cheaper, the summer crowds haven’t arrived yet, and the Greek islands are way quieter than in summer. May is one of the best months to visit super-popular Greek islands, like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, as well as a great time for a wide variety of outdoor activities.

Keep reading to find everything you need to know about Greece in May!

Read also : Greece in April , Greece in June , Greece in September , Greece in October , Greece in November

The weather in Greece in May

In May, the weather in Greece is sunny and warm with very low chance of rain and low humidity. Temperatures hover between 16 °C and 26 °C and rise towards the end of the month, offering ideal conditions for a Greek holiday. However, you should keep in mind that it gets chilly in the evening, so we recommend that you bring a couple of cardigans with you! Although the water is still a bit cold for swimming, May is the perfect month to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, without the summer crowds.

Despite the good weather, the number of tourists that visit the Greek islands in May is minimal, which means that hotels are cheaper, restaurants aren’t packed, and even the most popular and overcrowded islands (Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, etc) are quieter.

Best Greek Islands to visit in May

• Mykonos (enjoy the island without the excessive summer crowds, sail to Delos island, visit popular tourist attractions (windmills, Little Venice) without sharing them with hundreds of tourists, sunbathe at the wonderful beaches, score seasonal hotel deals)
• Santorini (take advantage of the lower hotel rates at the often overpriced caldera hotels, visit the volcano, go on a peaceful sunset cruise around the caldera, savor the island’s natural beauty without the crowds, a very good time for wine and vineyard tours)
• Paros (the perfect balance between cosmopolitan and calm, a good base for spring island- hopping in the Cyclades, savor the beauty of the island without the bustling summer crowds, discover some of the best sandy shores in the Aegean, enjoy a more laid-back version of Naoussa and Parikia)
• Crete (go for crowd-free sightseeing, go on a road trip around the island, have the most popular beaches (Balos, Falasarna) all for yourself, hike through the epic Cretan gorges, introduce yourself to the local culture)
• Saronic islands (perfect time for a cruise or a sailing tour, enjoy the peaceful spring ambiance, go island-hopping between the islands, see the sights without the crowds)

Average temperatures in Greece in May

The cost of a holiday to greece in may.

Thanks to the lack of mass tourism, May is one of the cheapest months to visit Greece. Hotel and airfare rates are lower, while it’s common for many hotels to offer spring deals. The crowds in May are thin, which means that you can explore the islands and the mainland at your own pace and discover many local gems, avoiding the often overpriced tourist restaurants and bars. May is also the best month to visit places that get overcrowded in summer, like Oia and Fira in Santorini, Mykonos Town in Mykonos, Navagio beach in Zakynthos, Parikia and Naoussa villages in Paros, the Old Town in Rhodes, and Balos beach in Crete.

Types vacations in Greece in May

Thanks to the mild weather, May is the perfect month for outdoor activities on the Greek islands, like cycling, sightseeing, and nature exploration. May is also a good month for a sailing/yachting holiday in Greece . However, you should keep in mind that towards the end of the month the Meltemi winds that blow in the Aegean get stronger, so you should check the wind forecast before your trip. It is possible that some ferries that travel to the Cyclades islands get canceled due to the Meltemi winds, too.

If you want to go on a sailing vacation in Greece in May, we suggest that you choose the Saronic island group instead of the Cyclades! May is also a very good month for food and a wine holiday in Greece. The sunny weather is ideal for street food tours, vineyard visits, and all kinds of outdoor culinary experiences!

May is also a very good month for a honeymoon in Greece ! The idyllic spring scenery, lack of excessive crowds, and reduced shoulder season rates make May a top choice for honeymooners -particularly those traveling on a budget!

Finally, May is a wonderful month for road trips on the Greek mainland. Having a big city (like Athens or Thessaloniki) as your base, you can embark on an adventure to picturesque villages, idyllic coasts, verdant forests, and beautiful mountains.

Although Greek Easter usually falls in April, sometimes it falls in May, which gives you the perfect opportunity to enjoy spring break in Greece and introduce yourself to the local customs and traditional festivities. There are also many local feasts (panigiri) taking place on the Greek islands and mainland villages in honor of the patron saints. These feasts include folk music and dancing, flea markets, and tons of food and wine. By attending a Greek panigiri, you’ll experience the most authentic side of the place you visit. There’s also Labor day on May 1st, a day celebrated with open-air flower markets, concerts, and events on many islands.

Useful tips for traveling to Greece in May

• Pack summer clothing, but don’t forget to bring a couple of cardigans with you, as it gets chilly in the evening. What’s more, the weather is usually windy on the islands, so it’s better to be safe than sorry!
• Don’t forget to check for hotel deals in Greece before you book your trip. Many hotels offer discounted packages in spring.
• Although most restaurants, bars, and shops are open in May, some businesses haven’t started operating yet. Don’t forget to check before you go!
• If you want to go on a sailing vacation in the Aegean, it’s better to hire a skipper than to go on your own. The Meltemi winds are often strong around that time, so being guided by an experienced skipper is highly recommended.

Pros & Cons of traveling to Greece in May

• Warm and sunny weather
• Fewer crowds
• Perfect time for outdoor activities (road trips, cycling, hiking, etc)
• Hotels, flights, and ferries are cheaper
• Best time for sightseeing without the summer crowds
• Hotel deals & seasonal discounts
• The water is still cold for swimming
• Some businesses may not be operating
• It gets chilly in the evening
• It may be windy in the Aegean because of the Meltemi winds
• For the same reason, it is not a good time for a sailing holiday in the Aegean

Greece in May: Frequently Asked Questions

Is may a cheap month to visit greece, how many days in greece is enough, what is the cheapest time to go to greece, what is the rainy season in greece, what is the best time to go to santorini, to sum up….

Thanks to the cheaper hotels, the lower airfare and ferry rates, the sunny weather, and the absence of the overwhelming August crowds, May is one of the best months to visit Greece. Although the water isn’t warm enough for swimming, May is a very good month for sightseeing and outdoor activities, like hiking, cycling, and climbing.

Have you ever been to Greece in May? Did you like it? Write your answers in the comments section!

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Which greek island should you visit our 2024 top picks.

With more than 200 inhabited islands in Greece, each with its own attractions, brilliant sunsets, postcard-worthy beaches and aquamarine waters, it can be a tall order to decide which one is best suited for your island-hopping vacation. That's why U.S. News took into account sights, seasonality, traveler sentiment and more to come up with this list of the best Greek islands. Now the only decision you'll need to make is which beach hat to pack. Have a favorite Greek island? Vote below to help determine next year's ranking.

Folegandros

Through the ages, Corfu's natural beauty has caught the eye of famous writers like Homer and Shakespeare, as well as ancient Venetian, French and British armies that fought to control the island. Today, it's a picturesque haven for travelers seeking some serious rest and relaxation. There are plenty of resorts overlooking the Ionian Sea and restaurants, bars and shops lining the streets in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Corfu. Here, you'll also find plenty of museums, palaces and historic estates to keep you busy. Also budget time for visiting Paleokastritsa, a tranquil seaside village home to a 13th-century monastery and top-notch scuba diving sites.

Santorini's classic Cycladic architecture (think: whitewashed buildings with blue-domed roofs) makes this archipelago one of the most stunning and frequented of all of the Greek isles. On the main island of Thira, you'll find beautiful red and black sand beaches and well-preserved archaeological sites thanks to its volcanic history. After exploring Thira's busy tourist sights, take a day trip to quieter Thirassia to experience its quaint villages and untouched wilderness. You'll also want to visit Santorini's acclaimed wineries. Most are concentrated in central Santorini and can be seen during a winery tour. And don't miss catching the sunset from Oia for a postcard-perfect view.

One of the most popular Dodecanese islands, Rhodes hugs Turkey's coastline. Rhodes' large footprint allows for a wide range of activities for vacationers to enjoy. The island's namesake medieval city, which historically hosted the Knights of Saint John, showcases its rich history with well-preserved Gothic structures and several museums. Meanwhile, turquoise waters and sandy stretches like Lindos Beach (which sits alongside a scenic seaside village) and Agathi Beach (set in a picturesque cove) will suit any beach bum, and nature lovers can delight in the verdant Valley of Butterflies. What's more, Rhodes' many villages and cities boast flavorful food offerings and lively nightlife scenes.

Since only a portion of Karpathos is developed for tourism, this Dodecanese island is a haven for those seeking a secluded, low-key getaway. Spend days swimming in crystal-clear water and lounging on unspoiled beaches like Apella and Kyra Panagia. Adventurers can try their hand at windsurfing, a popular activity in the southern bay of Afiartis, or hike some of the island's mountainous trails. Travelers who really want to get away from it all can also take a day trip via boat to Saria or Sokastro, uninhabited and undisturbed islets that were once connected to Karpathos.

Greece's largest island offers something for every traveler. Sun-seekers can lounge on Crete's sandy beaches (such as Vai and the pink sand Elafonisi), and nature lovers can hike through Samaria Gorge in White Mountains National Park. History buffs can explore ancient sites like the Venetian Fortezza in Rethymnon, or visit Heraklion to see the Palace of Knossos (where the mythical Minotaur reportedly roamed) and check out the esteemed Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Everyone will enjoy savoring authentic Cretan fare – including graviera (a Gruyere-like cheese) and dakos (barley rusk topped with tomato, oregano and olive oil) – at the island's tavernas.

Although much of Kefalonia's impressive Venetian architecture was destroyed during an earthquake in 1953, the island still feels magical thanks to its diverse landscape. Wander through charming villages like Assos and Fiscardo to see colorful houses and beautiful churches. Then, soak up some sun on one of the island's pebbly or sandy beaches (Myrtos is the most popular), or take a dip in the clear turquoise water to snorkel or scuba dive. If you'd rather get an adrenaline rush, hike to the top of Megas Soros (the highest point in the Ionian Islands) in Mount Ainos National Park or explore one of Kefalonia's underground caves.

Head to Zakynthos for its breathtaking yet rugged coastline full of hidden cove beaches, some of which are home to the endangered caretta caretta sea turtle species. Popular spots include Navagio (or Shipwreck) Beach – which can only be admired from a distance during a boat tour  – and the magical Blue Caves, where the reflection of the sky and the white limestone turns the water an ethereal shade of blue. Check out the Venetian Castle that overlooks Zakynthos' main town, then visit the Post-Byzantine Art Museum of Zakynthos to peruse art exhibits.

This small island's proximity to Athens makes it a popular weekend getaway for city-dwelling Greeks. But since Serifos is less visited by international crowds, the island retains a distinct authenticity and an opportunity to unwind. Here, visitors should embrace the art of doing nothing. But don't worry, the island's secluded stretches of sand like Ganema Beach (popular with the yacht crowd) and Psili Ammos (known for its soft sand) are perfect for doing just that. More social vacationers can also shop for souvenirs or sip ouzo at open-air cafes in the villages of Chora and Livadi.

Most Greek islands are known for their beaches, but Skiathos features some of the region's best. Here, you'll find more than 60 awe-inspiring options, including secluded Lalaria Beach and clothing-optional Banana Beach. Skiathos' vibrant blue water also makes it a terrific place to go sailing. Or, get picture-perfect views from above by hiking some of the island's 120-plus miles of trails. When you've gotten your fill of sun and sand, spend some time admiring the historic Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria. No visit would be complete without heading to Skiathos Town to eat authentic Greek cuisine and party at a local nightclub.

Spend your next vacation in Syros if you want to be surrounded by history and culture without rubbing elbows with hordes of tourists. Syros offers a quieter scene than other Cycladic islands, making it easy to leisurely meander through its charming towns. Check out Ermoupoli's architectural marvels, such as its town hall and the Apollon Theater, then climb the hill above Ermoupoli to Ano Syros, where you'll discover medieval fortifications and panoramic city views. After a few hours of sightseeing, unwind on one of Syros' sandy beaches.

Gorgeous scenery is available everywhere you turn on the Cycladic island of Milos. This volcanic island boasts more than 40 beaches surrounded by jaw-dropping rock formations (check out the lunar landscape at Sarakiniko), as well as houses sporting a variety of vibrant colors. Plus, Milos features multiple caves (including underwater options for scuba diving), hot springs and hiking trails. For a dose of local history, check out the island's catacombs, ancient theater and Archaeological Museum. The latter houses a life-size replica of Alexandros of Antioch's world-renowned Venus de Milo sculpture, which was discovered on the island in 1820.

An ideal spot for slow travel, Astypalea was made for long days of sunning on the sand, hiking through rocky countryside and perusing quaint villages. Shorelines here range from the sandy cove of Agios Konstantinos, which offers spectacular views of the hilltop village of Chora, to the rugged Kaminakia, which is worth the extra effort it takes to get there. Visitors can spend time hiking between beaches while passing Byzantine chapels and scenic monasteries along the way. What's more, the main village of Chora features a Venetian castle, idyllic old town streets to stroll through and a variety of locally produced cheeses and honey to sample.

Part of the Saronic Gulf, Hydra is one of the closest Greek islands to Athens and immediately stands out from its neighbors for its lack of motor vehicles. That's right – you'll have to meander your way around the car-free cobblestone streets on foot or on one of the many mules and horses that reside on the island. But such romanticism is a large part of Hydra's appeal to travelers. While here, walk the island's pebbly shorelines and explore its charming seaside towns like Hydra Town, where you'll discover lavish mansions (many now turned into museums) of elite families of yore and some of Hydra's best nightlife venues.

Folegandros offers a completely different experience than its Cycladic neighbor, Santorini. Here, you'll find undeveloped, hard-to-reach beaches surrounded by steep cliffs, lending a quiet remoteness far from the beach clubs of more touristy islands. Rugged beaches like Katergo and Livadaki are must-visits for their scenery and seclusion, while Agali is a top spot for its nearby tavernas. The clifftop old town of Chora, the largest village on the island, is also worth exploring for its whitewashed architecture, local culture and unbeatable sunset views.

Koufonisia's islands may be among the smallest of the Cyclades, but they offer everything you need for a relaxing seaside getaway. Pano Koufonisi (Koufonisia's only inhabited island) is where you'll find the destination's most beautiful beaches, some of which are clothing optional. After the day's adventures, eat, drink and shop in Chora, the island's capital. For a more secluded feel, take a day trip to Kato Koufonisi to swim or sightsee by boat. A third island, Keros, is not accessible because of its status as a protected archaeological site, but you'll likely see it from afar while traveling.

Paros, one of the most central Cycladic islands, is a mecca for water sports activities. At the island's sun-drenched beaches, travelers can windsurf, kitesurf, scuba dive and go boating, among other pursuits. Away from the water, visitors will find bustling Parikia, which boasts numerous boutiques, restaurants and bars. Paros' capital also features several noteworthy historical sites, including the sixth-century Panagia Ekatontapiliani (which means "Church with 100 Gates" in English) and a 13th-century Venetian castle. Arrive in summer to attend the Festival at the Park, a popular event held annually at the island's 800-acre Paros Park.

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades, meaning there's a lot more shore to go around. On this unassuming island, you'll find plenty of beaches to write home about, from popular Plaka to scenic Agios Prokopios, and lots of water sports activities. Due to the Meltemi wind that blows from the north, Naxos is an excellent destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing, so be sure to sign up for a lesson. Also save time for exploring ancient ruins like the temples of Apollo, Demeter and Dionysus.

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Mykonos In May – The Best Time To Visit

Looking to visit the Greek islands this year? Maybe Easter has just passed and you’re eager to start your summer ASAP. You might think May is a bit too early to visit the Greek islands. But this could not be further from the truth. In fact, Mykonos in May is arguably the best time to visit. Technically well within shoulder season, the mad crowds will not yet have descended onto the island. And yet the weather will be superb, with beaches, bars and towns opening up for business, some already being satisfyingly lively.

Yes Mykonos in May will be a little unrecognisable compared to the peak of July, August and September. I can reassure you that this is not a bad thing. Many Greeks actually choose to visit over the Easter period in April/May. Steering clear of the summer highs and the droves of tourists. Travelling to Mykonos during this time is somewhat more relaxed. And much better value when staying at some of Mykonos’ best hotels .

Weather in Mykonos in May

Temperature.

Average temperatures in Mykonos in May are very pleasant. You can typically expect it to range from 18℃ to 22℃. This is in comparison to the summer average of 25℃ and highs of 29℃. Days are steadily getting longer. Not only that, the evenings are pleasant enough to wander around with light clothing. Summer is well on the way. Beaches are gearing up and getting ready for the season yet far from being overcrowded. Sunscreen is always recommended even as early as May, with ample opportunity to sunbathe, with an average of 12 hours of sunshine a day. The sea temperature is a few degrees cooler in May and certainly noticeably crisp. This doesn’t stop me from swimming but it might for some.

Rain and wind

The glorious Greek summer is nearing and as expected the days are mainly bright and clear. So much so that you would only expect 3 days of rainfall on the island in the month of May. All in all, one of the best times to visit Greece in general, not just it’s liveliest island.

Mykonos is, however, often referred to as the island of the winds. The same being whether you visit in summer, spring or autumn. The strong Meltemi winds blow from the North and are commonplace, usually coming for days at a time. They can be annoying during the summer, but maintain temperatures at a comfortable level. Equally annoying in May and can bring even cooler temperatures. Hence it is a good idea to bring a light long sleeved jacket just in case it gets a bit too chilly in the evening. 

What to Wear in Mykonos in May

It will be completely down to luck as to whether you avoid the wind during your visit. Any which way, Mykonos is more than enjoyable. That being said make sure you bring a long sleeved top or light jacket in case you get cold easily. Apart from that, short sleeved tops, cropped trousers, skirts and shorts are the norm. This being particularly true during mid and late-May. Don’t bother with packing an umbrella or waterproofs. Even in the off chance of rain, it will pass relatively quickly.

Things to do in Mykonos in May

People visit Mykonos for different reasons. Some go for the romance, some for the wild parties. Arguably all are drawn by the beauty and vibrance of this hugely popular Greek island. Along with Santorini, easily the most visited and one of the best Greek islands to stay on.

There is a noticeable difference between the start of May and the end of May. Towards the beginning of the month, shops, venues, bars and restaurants begin to open up. The chora is, of course, the earliest to open up its shutters in readiness for the incoming flux of tourists. Beach bars and clubs will also begin to assemble their vast quantities of sunbeds and loungers. The middle of the month sees an increasing number of establishments transitioning into activity. And, by the end of the month, all but a few places will be open for business.

The beaches on the south side of the island are some of the best beaches in Mykonos . The likes of Paradise beach, Psarrou and Platis Gialos, will begin to unfurl their loungers in late April and early May. The atmosphere is relaxed, with sunbeds available without prior reservation.

Don’t expect the beach bars and beach clubs to resemble the scenes you might typically associate with Mykonos. The mega beach parties, thumping house music and mass of partygoers don’t arrive until the peak high season in July and August. That being said, you will find some beach bars busier than others and plenty of music to keep you entertained.

The weather is great for sunbathing in May. Relaxing on the sunloungers or your own towel on the sandy beach is a great way to spend some time.  The sea can be tempting, just bear in mind it will be a few degrees cooler than what you might expect. You’ll find people taking a dip, particularly the younger/braver souls on vacation.

Bars and clubs

Similar to the beach clubs, the wild parties associated with Mykonos don’t come into full swing until July and August. You won’t find clubs packed to the rafters and Ibiza-style DJ sets just yet. If those wild parties are what you are after then best to plan for the summer. That being said, the opening parties of some of Mykonos most famous clubs; Cavo Paradiso, Scorpios and others, have their opening nights around the 20th of May. Others, such as Tropicana and Super Paradise opening nights may be in June, but that doesn’t stop them opening the beach section and playing music in May.

The more vibrant nightlife in May will be in Mykonos town, particularly in Little Venice. Go in mid to late May, and the place will be far from dead, bustling with people after sunset, particularly the likes of Caprice and Scarpa.

Where to go and what to do

All the highlights of Mykonos are very do-able in May. Mykonos town is becoming livelier by the day, yet nowhere near the point of hectic. Exploring the chora, enjoying a drink, some window shopping and a general wander is easy and relaxing. All in all, Mykonos is transitioning and by mid to late May, fully up and running.

Travel tips for Mykonos in May

Getting around mykonos.

Getting around Mykonos during this time is a whole lot easier due to the fewer number of people and cars. Hence, you have the option of taking public transport with the added benefit of more space and seats (Mykonos has a good amount of well connected bus routes). Or you can decide on taking taxis, although fares still tend to be on the pricey side. I tend to only recommend this if you are travelling with a small group and only plan on making one or two trips – as costs can rack up quickly. Lastly, you could rent a car from one of the many rental companies at the airport or in town. Prices will be relatively low, the roads will be clear, without congestion. Importantly, parking will be available at the popular places on the outskirts of Mykonos town, including by the windmills.

Visiting the Greek islands in May, Early June, late September and October is the best way to travel Greece on a budget . Prices at hotels and flights are not at their peak and you are bound to find some great deals if you search the typical booking websites as early as possible. Especially beneficial considering how costly Mykonos is.

Timing your trip

In conclusion, the best time to visit Mykonos in my opinion is May. Furthermore (if you can) try to plan it towards the middle and end of the month. That is when you will get the best of everything. Sunshine and great weather, a buzz of activity, excitement and entertainment yet still avoiding the crazy crowds that set upon the island every year.

• Post published: December 29, 2020
• Post category: Cyclades / Islands / Mykonos
• Post comments: 0 Comments

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How many Greek islands can I see in a week?

Feb 15, 2024 • 4 min read

It's not hard to visit two or three Greek islands like Little Venice in Mykonos in one week © Cosmin Voinea / 500px

Helen Iatrou, who considers herself a full-blooded Greek islander shares some ideas for planning an island-hopping trip.

Question: I’m planning a vacation to the Greek islands this summer but don’t know where to start. Which islands should I visit, and how many can I fit into a week-long trip? 

Helen Iatrou:  Sailing is my great passion, which makes the islands my literal playground . I prefer to take my time to get to know one island at a time, usually over one week. You’d be surprised how much there is to see, even on the tiniest specks. 

With dozens of islands in Greece to choose from, it’s a tough decision – trust me, I know. Every year I wrack my brain and spend hours researching my next island adventure. I’ve lost count of the number of times my husband has asked, “Why did you book that island?!” But every single time we return, we always bask in that glow of having explored somewhere new and intriguing. 

How to travel around the Greek islands 

While ferries are still the main mode of transport between the islands, these days it’s much quicker and easier to reach them via air. While not all of them have airports, you can usually fly into one of the larger islands with domestic carriers such as Aegean Airlines (check their handy low-fare calendar), Olympic Air , or Sky Express and take a short ferry to smaller isles nearby. If you do travel via ferry from port hubs  Piraeus or Rafina, choose the fast ferry options, which cost a little more but get you there faster. Ferryhopper is one of the best booking platforms, as you can map out your full inter-island journey. 

My favorite mode of travel is (you guessed it) by sailboat. If you charter a yacht with a skipper, you can hop between islands at your pace – unless you or your companions possess a skipper’s license and have sufficient experience to captain your craft yourselves.

Planning your island-hopping getaway 

May to October is prime time for the Greek islands , particularly if you want to soak up all the sunshine and swim in the glorious Aegean. Keep in mind that June through August can be hectic, particularly on the most popular islands, and flights and accommodation are at their most expensive, too. And who wants to wait hours for that restaurant table?

Start by thinking about what interests you and what you’re looking for. Beaches with all the amenities or hidden rocky coves? High-end restaurants or toes-in-the-sand tavernas? Ancient sites or late-night bars? Do you want to chill on one or two islands and see as much of them as you can? Or would you prefer to see multiple islands? 

I suggest taming your ambitions, and focusing on one island group, visiting no more than two to three islands in total. If you’re sailing, you can certainly drop anchor at a different island each day.

Take your pick of Greek island jewels

Most first-timers choose the Cyclades , homing in on Santorini for its cliffs dripping with whitewashed cubic buildings, and Mykonos for its charismatic appeal. Once you’ve had your fill of Mykonos, take the ferry to nearby Tinos . This low-key island has quietly earned itself a reputation for exceptional farm-to-fork fare, hiking trails and boutique wineries.

If you’ve got kids in tow, you might prefer to fly or ferry your way to Naxos , where kids can safely swim in shallow waters amid golden sands or learn to windsurf. From there, couples desperately seeking serenity and umbrella-free beaches can board the hardy Express Skopelitis for the Small Cyclades isles of Schinoussa, Donousa, Iraklia or Koufonisia. 

If verdant hillsides, turquoise seas and stark white pebble beaches sound dreamy, the Ionian Islands beckon. Fly into Corfu , where you can cool off at sandy beaches and stroll the emerald isle’s romantic, cobblestoned capital. From there, take a hydrofoil to the twin isles of Paxi (or Paxos), whose unpruned olive trees deliver delicately flavored olive oil. From Paxos, hire a motorboat and scoot over to Antipaxos to dive into translucent aquamarine waters.

Down south in the Dodecanese , fewer travelers venture beyond Rhodes and its medieval old town, where you can envision knights thundering down flagstoned alleyways and wander through the seaside village of Lindos. Yet a short flight away is remote Karpathos . In hillside Olympos, women still don lavish traditional costumes for special occasions and celebrate with all-night panegyria (feast days). 

Mapping out a Greek-island getaway might seem daunting, poor travelers – but rest assured that whichever destinations you decide on, you’re guaranteed to return home with memories that will remain in your mind for years to come.

This article was first published March 2023 and updated February 2024

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Best Greek Islands To Visit In April and May

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E very Greek island has something to offer visitors. You just need to know which one matches your interests, budget and type of holiday!

If you are planning a holiday to the Greek islands in April or May there are some things to keep in mind for a smooth experience.

☞ Related: Your Master Guide to All Greek Islands and How to Pick One

Can you swim in Greece in April and May?

One of the first questions you will probably want an answer to is, “can I swim?”. Well, yes and no.

Everybody has a different idea of what a comfortable beach temperature is but if you are planning on lounging on a sunbed all day and getting a suntan then April and May are not ideal months.

In Santorini, the average water temperature is 16o to 18o Celsius (60-64 Fahrenheit). You find similar temperatures in Rhodes and Crete which are considered the warmest places to be during that period of the year.

Crete, Heraklion

Having said that, on a clear blue sky kinda day, there is nothing stopping you from experiencing the cold Mediterranean waters. When I called the island of Crete home, middle of December swimming was not unheard of, plus it is supposed to be great for your immune system!

If your budget allows, finding a hotel with a heated indoor or outdoor pool would be ideal. Especially in places like Santorini that is a great spring destination for travellers that dislike crowds. Getting to experience a caldera view while warm inside your spa pool is bliss!

While most Greeks will find May still quite cold for swimming, the southern islands like Crete and Rhodes will all be good options for a dip.

What is the weather going to be like in Greece in April and May?

For April expect the temperature to hover around 20 degrees and come prepared with at least one light jacket and some warm layers. On average there are at least 6 days of rainfall a month.

By mid May the temperature will have significantly increased to a perfect 26o degrees Celsius but if you are a fan of hiking activities or will like to explore more mountainous areas then a few warmer clothing items will still be needed.

What Greek islands are best for April and May?

Dodecanese: Rhodes , Kos, Karpathos , Patmos, Kalymnos

Cyclades: Mykonos , Santorini , Paros , Naxos , Tinos, Milos , Syros, Sifnos, Folegandros

Eptanisa : Corfu

Other: Crete

The best Greek islands for April and May have a few things in common.

a) a permanent population base which means more accommodation and activity options b) frequent flights or ferry options c) located in southern Greece for warmer temperatures

Dodecanese Islands For April and May

The Dodecanese peninsula is a complex of 15 major islands that are located between the Cyclades and Turkey.

The most famous island in the region is Rhodes, which is ideal for those wanting to combine their holidays with a plethora of cultural and historical activities. Known as the island of Knights and Castles, Rhodes ticks all boxes for a warm, easy to reach island whose size allows more options for activities.

Flying into Rhodes is probably the easiest, fastest and cheapest option. Alternatively, you can book a ferry from the port of Piraeus in Athens .

There are usually daily departures all year round and it will take you approximately 15 hours and at least 20 euro per person depending on availability. The Easter celebrations can affect the frequency and availability of the ferries as well as their price. The neighbouring Kos, Karpathos, Patmos and Kalymnos all have connections to Rhodes as well that take between 3-5 hours to reach.

Cyclades Islands For April and May

The Cyclades are the most visited islands in Greece. That includes the all-time favourite Santorini, celebrity magnet Mykonos, and “not-so-secret” anymore Milos and Naxos. Due to their popularity, the islands of the Cyclades will be some of the easiest to reach.

Yet, the sheer number of options can be confusing to say the least.

What is one to do?

Mykonos and Santorini are the places visitors most often say they want to visit. If that is your dream destination and you are set on experiencing them outside of the summer season (meaning without your bikini) then go for it. The prices will be lower than in July and August and you will have a better chance of experiencing the Greek hospitality and relaxed vibe that you have heard so much about.

But! If your holiday lines up with the Orthodox Easter dates, whether intentionally or unintentionally then why not experience the rich traditional past in some of the neighborhing islands.

Milos Island

Syros, for example, is an interesting choice, since it has the largest number of Catholics in Greece and they traditionally celebrate Catholic and Orthodox Easter on the same time. Even though the Catholic Easter date always falls a week earlier.

In Folegandros, the people of the island celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ with a procession. Starting on Easter Sunday and for the next two dates, the icon of the Virgin Mary is taken around the island to every village and every house, where it is received in the spirit of celebration. Treats, delicacies and wine are handed out to the people of the procession.

In Tinos, an island known as the island of miracles and religious pilgrimage, another interesting tradition survives in the village of Ktikados, the meal of love. It is a chance for people to sit and enjoy a meal together, forgive each other any wrongdoings done in the past and reconcile.

What other destinations to visit in Greece in April and May?

There are of course other non-island destinations that you can visit in April and May.

This might be a good option for those looking into travelling very early in April when some hotels and activities are still closed or there are less frequent connections to allow for island-hopping.

Springtime in Greece is ideal for nature lovers! Grab a backpack, your hiking gear and a good friend and go explore some of the more mountainous destinations around Central Greece. You don’t need to leave the sea far behind you to do that either. You can have the best of both worlds in some of the destinations we suggest below.

In Old Panteleimonas , a village high up on the mountains, you can stay in a traditional settlement with cobblestone streets and adorable boutique hotels. Enjoy the view of the Thermaic Gulf below and dine on local delicacies while exploring another side of Greece.

Galaxidi , in Central Greece , has all the charm of an island destination, since until very recently it was cut off from the rest of the world. Architectural gems, peace and tranquillity are things you can look forward to here.

Thessaloniki in the north, the reigning co-capital of Greece, is the area richest in Byzantine monuments and has countless activity options for a colder springs day. If the sun is out and you wish for a swim, however, the beautiful beaches of Halkidiki nearby will not dissapoint.

Thessaloniki Waterfront

Things to keep in mind when traveling to Greece in April and May?

biggest thing to keep in mind when booking a holiday to Greece around the April, May period is Greek Easter.

The dates for next few years are: 2021 – May 2nd 2022 – April 24th 2023 – April 16th 2024 – May 5th

Easter is the largest Christian holiday in Greece. Yes, even more important than Christmas. People spend a lot of time preparing for and celebrating Easter, with countless events both purely religious as well as family gatherings.

What that means for travelers, is that the days before Easter Sunday and the week following are busy, with lots of people moving from place to place to be with loved ones. There tends to be a mass exodus from Athens to the villages and islands.

The positive side is that there are more ferry routes available to the islands. Almost everything will be closed on Easter Sunday and most businesses may also remain closed for Easter Monday.

Pro tip: If you choose to spend Easter in Greece arrive well in advance. The biggest issue around that period is movement around places.

Conclusion for Greek islands in April and May

As you can see, travelling to the Greek islands in mid spring is a great option. If are wanting to hit one or more destinations, plan your routes well in advance and pay close attention to the Orthodox Easter dates.

Lounging on a sunbed will not be feasible but you can still splash around the waters. The most southern islands will be warmest, and the largest of the lot will have more to offer in terms of activities.

*Disclaimer: This page includes affiliate links. If you decide to book something through one of them, I might get a little bonus, but it won't cost you anything extra.*

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Which Greek Island Should You Visit in 2024?

By Rachel Howard and Condé Nast Traveller

Lord Byron was on to something when he waxed lyrical about the Greek islands. But with more than 200 inhabited to choose from, which ones are the very best Greek islands? Here regular isle-hopper Rachel Howard reveals the ones to get in a speedboat for in 2024, with recommendations on where to stay chosen by the editors of Condé Nast Traveler .

Here, we've also ranked the best Greek islands, from 1 to 29. While we love and highly recommend every island on this list—and advocate visiting all of them throughout your lifetime, if you can—we've also edited the list in order so if it's your first time planning a visit to this magical corner of the world, or you just want to branch out from your usual summer isle trip, we can help you choose where to go next. The order below reflects our well-traveled team's personal opinions, the landscapes, food, beaches, hotel options, and more.

For more recommendations, see our round up of the best Greek Islands hotels .

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler  are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Best of the Greek islands for: A photogenic and dramatic coastline

Everyone knows the  Venus de Milo (which has stood in the Louvre since the 19th century). Until recently, very few had heard of Milos, the volcanic island where Aphrodite’s graceful likeness was discovered. Those in the know jealously guard their treasured island, and especially its 70 (or more) beaches — surely the most diverse and dramatic coastline of all the Greek Islands.

Little by little, though, Milos is being discovered. Instagram is saturated with no-filter shots of the undulating white cliffs at Sarakiniko, the bottle-green swimming hole at Papafragas, and colorful, rickety syrmata, tiny boat houses wedged between rock and sea. (You’ll find the best photo opportunities at Klima and Mandrakia). This painterly landscape was shaped by the minerals that have long been a source of wealth–obsidian, alum, barite and sulphur, which still bubbles up in the island’s many hot springs. As the 11,000-year-old mining industry is gradually giving way to tourism, several chic hotels have made an appearance. Go now, before the trickle of visitors turns into a tide.

Where to stay on Milos:

• For romance: Milos Cove
• For families: Captain Zeppos
• For an eco-retreat: Skinopi Lodge
• For an authentic stay: Achinos By The Sea

Best of the Greek islands for: A long weekend with the art crowd

You know when Dakis Joannou, Greece's foremost art collector, is on Hydra. His yacht,  Guilty , is painted in gaudy 'camouflage' by Jeff Koons. Every summer, Joannou invites big hitters such as Matthew Barney and David Shrigley to create site-specific installations in the Greek island's old slaughterhouse. Even the school is commandeered for exhibitions in the summer holidays. Car-free and protected by a preservation order, Hydra has always been the artists' muse of the Greek Islands. Leonard Cohen set the scene in the 60s; now Brice Marden, Sadie Coles and Juergen Teller have homes here. Athenian artists take up residence at the School of Fine Arts, one of the vast, grey, stone mansions overlooking the horseshoe harbour. Musicians of all stripes rehearse and record at the  Old Carpet Factory , an 18th-century residence whose double-height ceilings and underground cistern have incredible acoustics.

Less than two hours from Athens , Hydra fills up with chic Greeks at weekends. They come to disconnect and slow down, but also to see and be seen. Wily cats and weary donkeys patrol the back alleys, but all the action happens along the waterfront. Oh look! There's Olivia Palermo at The Pirate Bar and Chloë Sevigny shaking her tail feather at Hydronetta beach bar. Who cares if there are barely any beaches? You can always find a slab of sun-baked rock from which to leap rock from which to dive into the clearest water in the world. See our full guide to  Hydra, Greece .

Where to stay in Hydra:

• For a boutique stay: Orloff Boutique Hotel
• For a beachfront stay: Onos Residence
• For a group: Mirkella sleeps 12 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Big, fat Greek feasts

Sifnos owes its foodie reputation to its most famous descendant, Nicholas Tselementes, who wrote the first Greek cookbook in 1910. Forget souvlaki and moussaka: here, chickpea croquettes and stewed capers are taverna staples. The island is peppered with potteries that produce the earthenware casseroles used for revitháda (baked chickpeas) and mastelo (lamb with red wine and dill). Traditional dishes are slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven at To Meraki tou Manoli, a local institution on sheltered Vathy bay. (While you’re there, invest in some timeless tableware from Atsonios Ceramics, in business since 1870.) In postcard-pretty Artemonas, all roads lead to Theodorou, purveyors of nougat wafers and almond sweets since 1933. You can eat in your bikini at Omega3 , where locally foraged and fished ingredients are given an exotic twist: baby-calamari tempura, smoked eel in chilled melon soup with wasabi, and chickpea sorbet with wild apricot jam and pine nuts. In 2021, Omega3’s previous energetic head chef Giorgos Samoilis opened Cantina , an equally experimental restaurant in Seralia, a pretty little bay below the beautiful medieval village of Kastro. Lobsters are plucked straight from the sea at Heronissos, then served with spaghetti on the jetty. It's just the right balance of low-key luxury and unspoiled authenticity. Rather like Sifnos itself.

Where to stay in Sifnos:

• For romance:  NÓS
• For a boutique stay:  Verina Astra
• For families:  Verina Terra
• For a laidback stay: Sifnos House
• For something unique:  This windmill Airbnb

4. Santorini

Best of the Greek islands for: Honeymooners and first-timers

Cooing American and Chinese honeymooners line up to take selfies as the sun sinks behind Santorini's caldera, the flooded volcanic crater. That view may be a romantic cliché, but it still takes your breath away. A volcanic explosion blew out Santorini's heart 3,500 years ago, leaving black-sand beaches, vertiginous cliffs in psychedelic hues, and swirling rumors about Atlantis in its wake. The eruption also preserved the ancient city of Akrotiri under layers of ash, and created fertile ground for exceptional Assyrtiko grapes and Vinsanto wines. (Sample them at Domaine Sigalas and Vassaltis wineries, paired with delicate dishes that let the grapes sing.)

Apart from a boat trip to the smoldering crater of Nea Kameni and hot springs at Palia Kameni, there's not much to do but gaze at the mesmerizing views from your suite, dangling on the edge of the caldera. Most places to stay are concentrated in Oia and Imerovigli, but the inland village of Pyrgos is up-and-coming. Go for a twilight Bellini at Franco's Cafe and visit Emporio, with its smattering of old-school coffee shops and Airbnbs. For a glimpse of Santorini before the onslaught of cruise ships and Instagrammers, explore the quieter south (but keep your discoveries to yourself).

Where to stay in Santorini:

• For laidback luxury: Perivolas
• For glamour: Nobu Hotel
• For romance: Andronis Boutique Hotel
• For the wine: The Vasilicos
• For groups: Elilia Superior Villa sleeps 8 people
• For something unique: this cave house

Jessica Puckett

Caitlin Morton

Olivia Morelli

Best of the Greek islands for: Culture and off-season cachet

On Syros, capital of the Cyclades, you won’t find sugar-cube villages and whitewashed lanes. The colorful 19th-century city of Ermoupoli is built on twin peaks–one Orthodox, the other Catholic, the heritage of a long Venetian occupation. There’s still a strong Italian flavour in Ermoupoli’s marble piazzas, princely mansions, and miniature replica of La Scala, the showpiece of a year-round cultural scene. Syros hosts festivals of animation, dance, digital art, film, classical music, jazz and rembetiko, the Greek blues popularised by local musician Markos Vamvakaris. A few rembetiko joints have survived in the upper town, Ano Syros.

Once Greece’s ship-building centre, Syros' industry centres around the yard in Neorio. But the most splendid legacy of the shipping industry are the manor houses in Vaporia and Poseidonia. The beaches are slightly less splendid—with the exception of Delfini, Varvarousa, and Aetos in the wild north. But fabulous seaside tavernas abound:  Iliovassilemar on Galissas beach for samphire and sea-urchin salad and rockfish soup;  Allou Yialou in the pretty seaside village of Kini for lobster with orzo. In Ermoupoli, the finest places to eat and drink are around Androu Street: Ousyra , where the chef plates up Greek-ified pasta and beautifully balanced salads, and  Django Gelato , where the pistachio gelato reigns supreme, and the fig sorbet made in August can sell out in less than half an hour. Perhaps the prettiest restaurant of all is  Mazi , a vine-covered courtyard festooned with bougainvillea. Before you leave, stock up on loukoumi (rose-tinted Turkish delight) and San Michali cheese from  Prekas delicatessen , and visit Zeyelo for hand-made wooden sunglasses. For more recommendations, see our insider  guide to Syros .

Where to stay on Syros:

• For a boutique stay: Xenon Apollonos
• For glamour: Hotel Ploes
• For romance: Aristide Hotel
• For groups: Villa Syros sleeps 12 people

6. Folegandros

Best of the Greek islands for: Authenticity with a bohemian buzz

The village square should be your first port of call on any Greek island: settle into your favorite café, pick up local gossip, and adjust to the languid pace of life. On Folegandros, this presents a challenge: the cliff-hanger capital, Hora, has not one but three squares, each brimming with a jumble of cafés, tavernas and dinky raki bars. We recommend  Pounta , where the Danish owner makes and sells the lopsided cups and bowls in which your coffee and Greek yogurt are served. From Hora, zigzagging steps lead up, up and away to the only real landmark, Panagia church; make the pilgrimage at sunrise (perhaps after an all-nighter at diminutive Astarti bar).

Folegandros–which means ‘iron hard’ in ancient Greek–is as barren as its name suggests. Fruit trees are protected from fierce winds by rings of stones. You won’t find sandy beaches lined with sunbeds; only limpid, pebbly coves, such as Katergo, Ambeli and Livadaki. Set in the rocks above Agios Nikolaos bay, Papalagi serves big fat prawns and whole grilled octopus on a wooden deck aligned with the horizon. Water taxis service some beaches in high season; otherwise you’ll have to scramble down rocky footpaths to cool off. On your way home, stop at Mimis or Synantisi in Ano Meria for the island speciality of  matsata (goat or rabbit stew with hand-made pasta).

Where to stay on Folegandros:

• For views: Anemomilos
• For families: Anemi
• For beach access: Blue Sand Hotel
• For a private stay: Maistros

Best of the Greek islands for: Antiquities, active adventures and sunshine all year round

Greece's largest island, the birthplace of Zeus,  Crete has ancient ruins, snow-capped peaks and beaches galore. Sunshine is pretty much guaranteed year round, but spring is especially lovely for rambling and sightseeing. The Minoan palace of Knossos is glorious, despite the steady stream of coach parties (go early: it opens at 8 ); but there are stunning ancient sites, such as Aptera and Malia, peppered all over the island. The 16km-long Samaria Gorge also teems with pilgrims, but there are hundreds more canyons to explore, often with only the elusive kri-kri (wild goats) for company. One of the most staggeringly beautiful hikes is through the Aradena Gorge in the wild and rugged Sfakia region, ending at Marmara, a translucent cove on the Libyan Sea, for a cooling dip and lunch at one of Crete’s finest tavernas, Dialiskari.

With the exception of Elounda–a pocket of bling popular with oligarchs–the north-east coast is scarred by over-development. Head west to the Amari valley or Apokoronas for authentic villages surrounded by olive and orange groves. Or go south, where you'll find the best beaches in Crete–try Ligres, Sougia, or Kedrodasos. Alternatively, take a back-to-nature break at Milia Mountain Retreat , a 16th-century hamlet powered entirely by solar energy. Everything on the mostly organic menu is grown, caught or reared locally. In fact, it’s almost impossible not to eat well on Crete, which produces superb cheese, honey and olive oil, as well as delicious goat, rabbit and smoked-pork dishes. Time slows almost to a standstill in the mountain villages, where locals with formidable whiskers welcome you with shots of raki (Cretan grappa) for breakfast and celebrate saints' days with a volley of gunshots. Even the road signs are peppered with bullet holes.

Where to stay in Crete:

• For families: Domes Zeen Chania and Cretan Malia Park
• For romance: Acros Wellness Suites
• For a great location: Blue Palace Resort & Spa
• For a village stay: Kapsaliana Village
• For a private stay: Azure Awe
• For a group: Cien sleeps 16 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Character and lush landscapes

Corfu is the It Girl of the Ionian islands. The cosmopolitan capital is a charming clash of Venetian, British, and French colonial influences. Evenings kick off with cocktails on the Liston (a colonnade modelled on Paris's Rue de Rivoli), followed by dinner at  Salto , an unpretentious wine bar and bistro on the edge of the Old Town.

With its pastel villages, rolling olive groves and grand manor houses, the rest of the island recalls Tuscany—but with some of the  best beaches in Europe . The smart set stay on Corfu's north-east coast (nicknamed Kensington-on-Sea) where the Rothschilds like to unwind. It's wall-to-wall Sloanes and speedboats at Agni, a tiny fishing village with three rival tavernas (Toula's is the best). From here, you can rent a boat and putter to your own cove: perhaps Nissaki, Agios Stefanos or Kerasia. These idyllic bays still resemble the 'delectable landscape' that Lawrence Durrell fell for in the 1930s–now back in vogue thanks to the ITV series, The Durrells . Or venture inland to  Ambelonas , an enchanting winery, restaurant and cooking school that specializes in unusual local dishes, such as roast pork with quince and crème brûlée with Corfiot kumquats. Steer clear of the south, especially Kavos–unless you happen to like wet T-shirt contests.

Where to stay in Corfu:

• For a standout spa: Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
• For all-inclusive: Ikos Dassia
• For romance: Domes Miramare
• For families: Domes of Corfu
• For groups: Emerald Oasis sleeps 10 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Endless sandy beaches

Naxiots once made considerable fortunes exporting potatoes, cheese, marble and emery. Locals bequeathed undesirable seaside plots–useless for farming–to their laziest offspring. When tourists cottoned on to the island's scores of fabulous beaches, these wastrels found themselves sitting on gold mines. The west coast of Naxos is fringed with mile upon mile of powdery sands. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna delight toddlers and teenagers alike with their shallow waters and beach bars. As you head south, the beaches get wilder: Plaka, where you can gallop across the dunes on horseback, Mikri Vigla for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and crystal-clear Kastraki.

Should you tire of frolicking on the shore, three supersized kouros statues are hidden in the hills and there are dozens of drowsy villages to explore. Try kitron, the local citron liqueur, at the Vallindras distillery in Halki or sample homemade wine and arseniko cheese under the plane trees in Ano Potamia village. No wonder Herodotus described Naxos as “the happiest of islands."

Where to stay in Naxos:

• For romance:  Naxian on the Beach
• For laidback luxury:  Kavos
• For a private stay:  Eye of Naxos Sky
• For families: Hidden Hill

10. Cephalonia / Kefalonia

Best of the Greek islands for: Laidback family holidays

Casting Penélope Cruz as a Greek peasant is improbable. Shooting a World War II film on an island flattened by an earthquake in 1953 sounds even crazier. And yet  Captain Corelli's Mandolin put under-the-radar Kefalonia (Cephalonia) in the spotlight in 2001. The dramatic scenery still lives up to the hype: milky-white Myrtos beach, the island's pin-up; pine-fringed Horgota beach; and the giddying heights of Mount Ainos, a national park where wild horses roam. Outdoor Kefalonia organises four-wheel-drive safaris, if you can't face the hairpin bends. Surprisingly, the two prettiest seaside villages–Assos and Fiskardo–didn't make the cut. But the yachting set has discovered their photogenic charm. Everyone from John Galliano to Jon Bon Jovi has jumped ashore to taste the seafood pasta at  Tassia Restaurant in Fiskardo, washed down with local Robola and Muscat wines. (We recommend the organic muscat from the 19th century  Haritatos Vineyard in Lixouri, also an enchanting setting for wine tasting.) The rocky coastline around Fiskardo is deliciously pristine: go snorkeling at tiny Dafnoudi or Emblisi, flanked by slabs of limestone that turn the water electric blue.

Where to stay in Kefalonia:

• For an adult-only retreat:  F Zeen
• For families:  Emelisse Nature Resort
• For groups:  Odyssea sleeps 12 people
• For a private stay:  Wilderness Whisperings house
• For something unique:  This sky high villa

Best of the Greek islands for: Walking trails and wild beaches

Divided by four mountain ranges, Andros is like several islands in one. Lush valleys, rushing streams, handsome villages, and wild, windswept beaches are connected by a well-maintained network of hiking trails, making this an excellent off-season destination. Many of Greece’s powerful shipping dynasties hail from Andros; they have bequeathed the island with grand estates, splendid museums, and an elegant neoclassical capital. The marble-paved streets of Chora are full of unexpected treasures: a tiny, open-air cinema showing black-and-white classics, great pizzas and cocktails in a  converted slaughterhouse , sublime sundresses and sandals at  Waikiki boutique. Inland, there are fortified monasteries, ice-cold waterfalls, and fantastic farm-to-table tavernas like Kosses in Ano Fellos, Fofo’s in Livadia, and Tou Josef in Pitrofos to explore. And then there are the mind-blowing beaches: from the spectacular sandy bays of Zorkos, Vitali, and Vori on the north coast to the mellow beach bars at Apothikes and Chryssi Ammos, or the sunset views and old-school fish taverna at Agia Marina, there are options for whichever way the wind or your mood is blowing. You could spend weeks on Andros and still have more to discover.

Where to stay on Andros:

• For a guesthouse stay: Melisses
• For privacy: Onar
• For a village stay: Touchstone House
• For groups: Five Star Greece

12. Serifos

Best of the Greek islands for: Naturists and purists

The sleeper hit of the Cyclades, Serifos is the summer retreat of interior designers and architects who prefer to keep the sandy beaches to themselves. (One French home-owner is so protective of her hideaway that she tells all her friends she summers on nearby Sifnos.) Even in August, you’ll find coves where you can skinny dip in blissful solitude. That’s because the best beaches (such as Kalo Ambeli and Skala) are only accessible via bone-rattling dirt roads or donkey tracks. Better still, rent a motor boat from the laidback harbor, Livada. Make sure to moor outside Anna’s taverna on Sikamia beach for freshly caught fish and garden-grown salads.

In the cascading hilltop Hora, there’s barely any nightlife, no smart boutiques or fancy hotels. But who cares when you can kick back with fennel pie and raki at  Stou Stratou , pick up Natassa Kalogeropoulou’s minimalist ceramics at  Kerameio , and listen to Greek folk in the open-air amphitheatre? And all less than three hours from Athens.

Where to stay on Serifos:

• For a boutique stay: Verina Astra
• For romance: Chill & Co.
• For groups: Lenia sleeps 12 people
• For something unique: This 19th century captain’s house

13. Mykonos

Best of the Greek islands for: Decadent parties and five-star hotels

Mykonos had LGBTQ+ clubs and sunrise parties long before rave culture was even invented. Its bohemian allure hasn’t faded since the 1960s, although the once naked beaches now have nail bars, personal trainers and house music pumping out all hours. The influx of supermodels and superyachts has inspired hot new hotels and restaurants. The hippest place to show off your abs is  Scorpios , a louche beach bar that puts Ibiza's finest in the shade (book a cabana to watch the sunset). After hours, it's always Astra, where you might find Keith Richards chatting up Karolina Kurkova. The LGBTQ+ crowd has dwindled, but drag queens and oiled bodybuilders make a splash at Jackie O' , overlooking Super Paradise beach.

If the glitzy excess gets too much, escape to Fokos taverna for superfood salads and lamb chops, or Kiki's, an off-grid grill-shack overlooking Agios Sostis bay, where even Naomi Campbell has to queue for a table. Or cruise over to the tiny island of Delos, an archaeological sanctuary that once thronged with 30,000 sun worshippers (the temple is dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of light).

Where to stay in Mykonos:

• For romance: Cali Mykonos
• For the party scene: Soho Roc House
• For a laidback stay: Once in Mykonos
• For families: Santa Marina resort
• For groups: Bluewave XL sleeps 36 people

14. Zakynthos / Zante

Best of the Greek islands for: Seaside holidays with toddlers or teens

Zakynthos, or Zante, has shrugged off its reputation as a destination for lads on tour (as long as you avoid Lagana and the built-up south coast) by rebranding itself as one of Greece's greenest islands. It's not just the emerald hills sliding into the electric blue Ionian: much of the south coast is a nature reserve where endangered loggerhead turtles hatch in the sand. The turtle beaches are off limits, but there are countless coves in every hue of green and blue. Favourites are tiny Xigia, with its bubbling underwater springs, and craggy Porto Limnionas, with sunbeds wedged between the rocks and palm-frond umbrellas positioned between the pine trees. Skinari is the starting point for boat trips to the most famous landmarks, the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach, where a rusting liner leans into the chalky cliffs. From Keri, you can cast away for Marathonisi island, another turtle sanctuary.

The mountainous interior, all sleepy stone villages poking out of pine forests, is great for hikes and bikes. ( Eco Zante can arrange outdoor activities guided by insiders.)  Askos Stone Park is a wildlife sanctuary inhabited by deer, chinchilla, and dozens of other species. After exploring the Venetian castle high above the harbour, treat the kids to thin-crust pizzas (with grown-up toppings like bresaola, aubergine, and gorgonzola) at  Alesta on cute St Mark's Square.

Where to stay in Zante:

• For families: Porto Zante
• For romance: Zante Maris Suites and Olea All Suite Hotel
• For a private stay: Halcyon Seas
• For a group: Ble Kyma sleeps 12 people

15. Amorgos

Best of the Greek islands for : Deep-blue seas and wide-open spaces

It’s not easy to get to Amorgos. In high winds, the fast ferries stay grounded and the slow boat takes upwards of eight hours from Athens. When you disembark at Katapola, a sleepy harbor lined with great little fish tavernas (our favorites are Prekas and Mouragio), a sign announces: 'Welcome to Amorgos. Nobody will find you here.'

That’s just the point. This craggy Cycladic island has always attracted loners, hikers, divers, and pilgrims, who shuffle up the cliff face to the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, a sliver of white dangling 300 metres above the sea. The water here is a million shades of blue and so startlingly clear you can see every sea urchin lurking on the rocky shore. Even the sage-scented hiking trails are called Blue Paths, because the sea and sky are visible in all directions.

With a population of under 2,000, the locals are outnumbered by shaggy goats that blend in perfectly with the burnished landscape and hippie vibe. But you don't have to be a recluse to fall for Amorgos. There are plenty of all-day spots and a few late-night bars where Amorgos groupies meet, summer after summer: Jazzmin, in Hora, for backgammon and cocktails; Pergalidi in Langada for herbal infusions and jazzy tunes; Seladi in Tholaria, with giddying views and a telescope for stargazing.

Where to stay on Amorgos: There are very few hotels on Amorgos, beyond basic rooms to let.  Vorina Ktismata is the exception, with seven smart apartments looking out across Hora’s white-washed rooftops.

Best of the Greek islands for: The perfect balance of seclusion and sophistication

One of the tiniest Ionian islands, Paxos packs a big punch. Not for its five-star hotels (there are hardly any) or its sandy beaches (practically none), but for its electric blue sea and three dinky harbor towns, each one so pretty it’s impossible to pick a favorite. In laid-back Loggos, on the northeast coast, star-spangled evenings are spent on the waterfront terrace of Taxidi bar, where the owner, Spiros, often jams with local musicians. You could while away days in the waterfront cafés of Lakka, watching lissom sailors hop on and off their yachts. Protected from the wind but with a lively social scene, the main port of Gaios is characterized by Venetian architecture and a high quota of stylish Italians, who own pale stone villas hidden in the wooded interior or on the crest of the limestone cliffs along the western shoreline. For the many British Paxos aficionados, all roads lead to  Ben’s Bar , a happy-go-lucky hangout on Monodendri beach, where you can laze under the olive trees with French toast and Piña Coladas. Make sure to rent a motor boat to putter along the coast to pebble coves such as Marmari and Kipiadi, or across to Antipaxos, an even smaller island that’s a hit with the yachting set. Paths through vineyards and orchards trickle down to bays with sea so clear it looks retouched.

Where to stay in Paxos:

• For an authentic stay: Paxos Villa
• For a great location: Oneiro
• For groups: Panayia View sleeps 14 people

17. Lefkada

Best of the Greek islands for: Sailors, surfers, and superstar beaches

Lefkada is something of an anomaly. Unlike the other Ionian islands, it’s accessible from the mainland via a causeway on the northern tip. Lefkada’s main town, flattened by an earthquake in the 1950s, certainly won’t take your breath away, but those famous cliff-backed beaches, Egremni and Porto Katsiki, sure will. You’ll find sheltered beaches no matter which way the wind is blowing; but if you’re here for the swell, the south coast is fantastic for windsurfing (head to Vassiliki or Sivota, home to the world windsurfing championships) and Agios Ioannis bay billows with kite-surfers. At Nidri, ignore the unlovely bars and watersports centres, and hop on a boat to explore the little isles nearby. You can swim through sea caves near Kalamos; eat seared tuna with tarama at Errikos taverna on Meganisi, a favorite of reclusive billionaires; and watch the sunset with a basil-infused Mastiha and tonic at Mylos bar, a converted windmill on Kastos.

Want to cool down or escape the summer crowds? Drive through forests of chestnut and pine into Lefkada’s mountainous interior to the somnolent villages of Karya (home to an enchanting textile museum), Eglouvi (to play backgammon under plane trees) and Exanthia (to watch the setting sun from up in the clouds at Rachi restaurant). You might even see paragliders leaping off the mountain.

Where to stay in Lefkada:

• For romance: Ibid
• For views:  New Morning villa

Best of the Greek islands for: A mythical retreat for lovers and loners

Despite its legendary stature, the homeland of Homer's hero, Odysseus, remains surprisingly under the radar. Ithaca’s turquoise and emerald coves are popular with the sailing set, but few visitors venture into the forested hills. So you might be the only person exploring the eighth-century BC ruins of Odysseus’ palace, or making the heady trek to the church of Anogi, covered in Byzantine frescoes (ask for the key at the village coffee shop, where the owner will cook you a set menu of whatever is available–maybe a tomato salad, some local cheese and braised goat—straight from her garden or neighbours’ fields).

From Anogi, it’s an exhilarating two-hire hike down to Kioni, a miniature port where you’ll find  Spavento , the perfect pier-side café-bar. Go any time of day or night for ice-cream sundaes, excellent cocktails, and a soundtrack to make your heart sing. The waterside tavernas at the drowsy fishing port of Frikes are unfailingly delightful, especially  Ageri . The deep, sheltered harbor town of Vathy is barely livelier, but the mood can be deliciously mischievous at Mylos bar. Beaches are mostly small and pebbly, but the sea is as clear and refreshing as gin. Authentic, unspoiled and infuriatingly (or gratifyingly) hard to reach, rugged little Ithaca is somewhere you can still disappear.

Where to stay on Ithaca:

• For a private stay: Ithaca Airbnb house
• For families:  Levendis Estate

Best for: Traditional villages and knockout tavernas

Tinos has more than 50 villages, each vying to be fairest of them all. In Pyrgos, famous for its marble craftsmen, sculpted birds and flowers decorate every doorway. In Volax, basket weavers squat outside cottages surrounded by giant boulders, seemingly flung from the heavens by Zeus in a fit of pique. There's even a village called 'love’, Agapi, where you can tuck into wild-fennel fritters at the only taverna. Tinos takes its food culture seriously: there are artichoke, caper and honey festivals.  Marathia launched the island’s farm- (or fishing-boat-) to-table scene, elevating local ingredients into complex modern dishes. For a perfect meal in perfect surroundings, go for cuttlefish risotto and octopus caramelized in grape must at Thalassaki, served on the jetty in Isternia bay, then watch dusk bleed into the horizon from Exomeria bar.

Tinos is only 20 minutes from Mykonos, so it's a wonder it isn't overrun with tourists. The harbor is swarmed on 15 August, however, when Orthodox pilgrims flock here to kiss the Virgin Mary at the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria, one of the holiest sites in Greece. Otherwise, the island is miraculously untouched. Solitary chapels and whimsical dovecotes stud thyme-scented hills, dropping to sandy bays whipped by the meltemi wind. There's a nascent surfer scene on Kolibithra bay, where a VW camper van has been converted into a cute beach bar.

Where to stay in Tinos:

• For a guest house stay: Xinara House
• For a private stay:  The Detailor

Best of the Greek islands for: Stark mystique and show-stopping villas

Patmos has an indefinable je ne sais quoi–an otherworldly quality that radiates from its crowning glory, the medieval Monastery of St John. This turreted fortress, bursting with Byzantine relics, is named after John the Divine, who conjured up his apocalyptic revelations in a cave nearby. Pure-white Hora, a World Heritage Site, is where A-listers and fashion editors stay. High walls and heavy doors conceal magnificent mansions dating back to the 16th century. The almighty church has kept nightlife in check. If you must see and be seen, head to quietly glamorous Astivi or Stoa Theo's bar, on miniature Agia Lesbia, in Hora. Beach life is generally languid and low-key; Psili Ammos and Livadi Geranou are our favorite hideouts. Dinner reservations are essential at Benetos, for Med-Asian fusion on an organic farm, and Lambi for grilled fish on a purple pebble beach.

Joining the Patmos in-crowd requires commitment. There's no airport and it's a nine-hour ferry journey from Athens, which keeps the hoi polloi at bay. Seriously reclusive types hop on a fishing boat from Patmos to Marathi and play castaway at Pantelis, a divine taverna with modest rooms to let.

Where to stay in Patmos:

• For a guest house stay: Pagostas
• For a private stay: Patmos 360
• For a village stay: Eirini

Best of the Greek islands for: Traveling back in time

When the writer Lawrence Durrell arrived in Rhodes after World War II, he found an island devastated by centuries of crusaders and invaders. Like the fallen Colossus, it was 'a Rhodes dispersed into a million fragments, waiting to be built up again.' Since then, Rhodes has reinvented itself as one of Greece's top travel destinations. The big draw is the medieval citadel in Rhodes Old Town: stroll along the battlements and you'll spy Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, synagogues, and minarets. In the maze of alleys, seek out Marco Polo Mansion, a 15th-century guest-house decorated like a pasha's harem, with an enchanting restaurant in the garden.

Upmarket hotels are clustered around Lindos, its magnificent acropolis surrounded by slate cliffs and emerald coves. Go for the views–and the sublime octopus ragout at Mavrikos restaurant.

As you head south, high-rise resorts give way to stretches of golden sand, such as Glystra, Tsambika, and Fourni. Inland, you'll find alpine forests (Mount Attavyros), hilltop castles (Monolithos), faded frescoes (Saint Nikolaos Fountoukli) and ancient ruins (Kamiros). Marooned on the southern tip, Prasonisi is a powdery peninsula where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. One side is calm, the other choppy–a metaphor for this island of two halves.

Where to stay in Rhodes:

• For romance: Casa Cook
• For history: Kókkini Porta Rossa
• For a boutique stay:  Melenos Art Boutique Hotel

Best for: Castaway coves and a picture-perfect port

Little Symi has the prettiest port in Greece. As you round the headland, neoclassical mansions in every shade of apricot and peach rise like a mirage from the sea. Built by 19th-century sponge and spice merchants, the whole town is now a national monument. You need strong legs to explore–it's about 500 steps up to the crumbling acropolis–but you won't need a car. The only proper road peters out at Panormitis monastery, a major pilgrimage site. Ravishing beaches such as Agios Giorgos Dysalona (backed by monumental cliffs) and Marathounda (where goats will try to filch your picnic) are only accessible by boat or on foot. In the rugged hinterland, more than 100 monasteries are hidden among the pine and cypress forests.

With its laid-back glamor, luminous sea and almost tropical microclimate, Symi is a hit with French and Italian yachties. You'll find them eating flash-fried baby shrimp, a local specialty, at Tholos, a sensational taverna where the harbor views almost steal the show.

Where to stay in Symi:

• For a hotel stay: The Old Markets
• For a private stay: On The Rocks

23. Astypalea

Best of the Greek islands for: Escaping the crowds

A throwback to a gentler, slower, more elemental way of life, Astypalea is surprisingly easy to get to (daily one-hour flights from Athens). Every gap in the burnished hills frames a different view of Hora, cascading from the Venetian castle to seaside Skala. The scent of saffron biscuits wafts through the whitewashed lanes. Tucked beneath the battlements, Castro bar has a magical terrace that seems to float above the archipelago.

The nearest beach is Livadi, a sort-of-resort surrounded by citrus orchards. The rest of the island is stark and wild. Treacherous tracks hurtle down to shingle bays such as Vatses, with a rocking beach bar, and Kaminakia, where Linda's farm-to-table taverna serves the best roast goat in the Dodecanese. If you really want to be alone, rent a motorboat from Maltezana, an old-time fishing village, and putter to Koutsomiti and Kounoupes, tiny islands connected by a double-sided beach. At Vathy, a lagoon where erotic graffiti was etched into the rocks 2,500 years ago, the only taverna is called Galini (Peace). Which sums up Astypalea perfectly.

Where to stay in Astypalea: Saluti da Stampalia Suites , with seven subdued but very stylish sea-view rooms, has upped the ante on an island where most accommodation is uninspired.

24. Skiathos

Best of the Greek islands for: Flopping onto a sandy beach with a good book

Skiathos may be the smallest of the Sporades islands, which counts among its number sleepy Alonissos and the pretty  Mamma Mia! location of Skopelos, but it’s by far the most popular, especially with families, who come for the baby powder-soft sandy beaches and laid-back vibe. The island has some of the finest beaches in Greece, with the tree-lined, turquoise-watered Koukounaries in the south the most celebrated and the busiest (forget about getting a sun lounger here in peak season). Those in the north of the island, which can only be accessed by a steep, winding drive through pine groves, are more rugged and windswept but no less idyllic–emerging onto Elia beach on the west coast, with its crystal-clear sea and rickety wooden taverna, is like stepping into a little slice of paradise.

As dusk falls the town starts to liven up, with most of the action centered around Papadiamantis Street, the main shopping drag. Stroll down it on the way to dinner and browse smart boutiques selling handcrafted jewelery and knick-knacks, or pick up local delicacies from the upmarket Ergon deli (reopens in May), which also has outposts in Athens, Thessaloniki and Mayfair. The buzziest restaurants are clustered around the harbour, with Bourtzi, perched atop a tiny rocky island, the best spot for sundowner cocktails and The Windmill a favorite for elegant suppers. For the most charming setting, head to Sklithri and book one of the taverna’s tables right on the beach. Order an ice-cold Mythos beer, baked feta and a platter of perfectly-chargrilled and out-of-this-world delicious vegetables then watch the sun set over the Aegean, with your toes in the sand.

Where to stay in Skiathos:

• For a hotels stay: Elivi Skiathos
• For a private stay: Villa Azalea

Best of the Greek islands for:  Low-key authenticity all year round

Unusually for Greece, Aegina is truly an island for all seasons. Only about an hour’s ferry ride from Piraeus, the unpretentious port (briefly the first capital of modern Greece) has a lived-in charm. Athenian weekenders come for the excellent seaside ouzeris; Skotadis, on the harborfront is the standout. Classicists come to explore the portside antiquities of Kolona, the hilltop temple of Aphaia (allegedly the template for the Parthenon) and the ghostly Byzantine chapels at Paleochora. Canny ex-pats have snapped up properties in Pachia Rachi, a stone village with sensational views across the straits to the Peloponnese. The Dumas family, heirs to the Hermès fortune, have been discreetly spending their summers here for decades. With its soft light and gentle landscapes, Aegina has always been a muse for Greek artists and writers, including the prolific painter Nikos Nikolaou, whose former home and atelier is now an  enchanting guesthouse and museum (open on Saturdays by appointment). Thanks to a tight-knit community of locals, Athenian escapees, and cosmopolitan emigrés, there’s always something interesting afoot: live music at Proka bar or  Il Posto , a cosy Italian restaurant in Kypseli village, an exhibition in the 17th century Markellos Tower, or a travel writing and ceramics retreat at  Oikia Karapanou , one of many stately homes in various states of ruin and repair that dot this incredibly diverse island. The only thing Aegina doesn’t have is great beaches—perhaps that’s what has spared this accessible island from over-development. This is an island that doesn’t depend on foreign tourists and is all the better for it.

Where to stay on Aegina:

• For a hotel stay: Nikolaou Residence
• For something unique: this bohemian artist's house
• For a group: Villa Calypso sleeps 11 people

26. Kastellorizo

Best of the Greek islands for:  Castaway dreams and swimming through caves

Michael Anastassiades, Lynda Benglis, Savvas Laz, Silvia and Nicoletta Fiorucci…the number of artists, designers, and their patrons who summer on tiny Kastellorizo is remarkable. Covering less than five square miles, with fewer than 500 inhabitants, this sun-blistered fleck lies just over one nautical mile from Turkey’s Anatolian coast. You can sail across to the town of Kaş for kofte and a trawl though the flea market and be back in time for a sundowner at Faros, a day-to-night hangout in the old lighthouse beside the mosque. A confluence of Levantine influences draws a culturally curious crowd to this remote Aegean outpost. Once a thriving maritime economy, Kastellorizo was bombed during World War II and then virtually abandoned. Gradually, the handsome sponge and spice merchants’ houses in vibrant shades of turquoise and terracotta are being revived as artists’ residences (such as Fiorucci’s 4Rooms), or enchanting guesthouses like  Mediterraneo . You can dive straight from Mediterraneo’s sundeck into the port, where sea turtles bob alongside colorful fishing boats. There’s not much action beyond the waterfront strip known as the  kordoni , or shoelace: a little snorkeling, cave swimming, or boat-watching, a ramble along goat tracks, a slow supper of stuffed onions under the fairy-lit plane trees at Ta Platania, or perhaps some yoga in the wild on the even tinier islet of Ro. This is a pure and simple Greece.

Where to stay on Kastellorizo:

• For a boutique stay:  Casa Mediterraneo
• For romance:  Mediterraneo
• For groups:  The Admiral’s House

27. Antiparos

Best of the Greek islands for:  Relaxed cool

This tiny island packs a surprisingly hip scene into its low-slung hills and shallow coves. Most of the action centres around the dinky port, where life drifts by in the waterfront cafés and the lively strip that leads to the square. Every season, more upmarket restaurants ( Yam ,  Lollo’s ) and boutiques ( More than This ,  Zali ) spring up alongside classic dive bars like  Doors and Lucky Luke. At dusk, all roads predictably lead to  Sunset bar for a spritz; after hours, everyone stumbles to cult disco La Luna, where both the décor and music are stuck in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

By day, the scene is way more mellow: brunch at  Margarita’s in town or  Time Marine  on Psaralyki, one of a string of shallow, narrow beaches along the southern coastline. Beyond the modest, boxy houses of the harbour town are dozens of sensational villas designed by in-demand architects. The fanciest properties are scattered around Soros and Agios Georgios bays, where you’ll also find two of the island’s best tavernas,  Peramataki and  Captain Pipinos . The latter is a short boat or kayak ride from Despotiko island, where goats roam around the semi-excavated sanctuary of Apollo. The beauty of Antiparos is that nothing is more than ten minutes away, and after a couple of days, you’ll feel like a regular, bumping into the same good-looking faces wherever you go. If you get cabin fever, you can hop on the 7-minute ferry to Paros for kite surfing, windsurfing, fine dining, or village hopping.

Where to stay on Antiparos:

• For a hotel stay: The Rooster
• For a private stay: Antiparos Escape Villas  and Oliaros

Best of the Greek islands for:  Distinctive architecture and good vibes

Long overlooked because of its checkered history—this Dodecanese Island was an Italian naval base from 1912–1943, and later became the site of a notorious insane asylum—Leros is all the better for flying under the radar. The vast natural harbor of Lakki (an excellent marina for sailboats) still bears the surreal hallmarks of Fascist rationalism, an Art Deco mirage that’s like a faded version of Miami on the Med. The colorful neoclassical houses of Agia Marina and Platanos have a more lived-in feel, peppered with appealing patisseries, antique shops, and B&Bs. Italian cognoscenti and Turkish yachties have discovered Leros for one very good reason:  Mylos by the Sea , arguably the best seafood restaurant in Greece, with a hopelessly romantic setting overlooking a windmill jutting out to sea. Sunset watchers converge on  Harris Bar , another windmill poised between the medieval castle of Panagia and Panteli’s pebbly beach. Most beaches on Leros may be small and scrappy, but the water is luminous and there are just enough low-key beach bars like  Zephyros  and  Lime . Since restaurants cater mainly to Greeks, the food scene is authentic and affordable: Thea Artemis taverna on gentle Blefouti bay, Lychnari in Lakki, and the cult souvlaki joint Yparxo in Platanos are local favorites. Although there’s a tiny domestic airport, there are no international flights or big, branded resorts on Leros. Instead, there are family-run guesthouses brimming with character, where you feel more like a friend than a room number.

Where to stay on Leros:

• For glamour:  Villa Clara
• For (vegan) romance:  Archondiko Angelou
• For a private stay:  Lakki Old Farmhouse

29. Spetses

Best of the Greek islands for:  Family holidays with the smart society set

If it weren’t for Sotirios Anargyros, Spetses might be as barren as its more bohemian neighbor, Hydra. In the early 20th century, after making a killing in tobacco, Anargyros bought up huge swathes of the island and planted thousands of pine trees. Anargyos also founded the famous boarding school (whose grounds are a lovely spot for an evening stroll) that inspired a certain English teacher to write The Magus , and built the Poseidonion, a grand harbor-front hotel that has been gloriously restored (there’s no finer place for an aperitivo). From the heirloom-filled mansions built on shipping fortunes to the horse-drawn carriages and tasteful yachts, the whole place reeks of old money. But there’s plenty of new-fangled fun too: late-night bars ( Bikini  or retro-cool  Bar Spetsa ), two open-air cinemas, stylish boutiques ( The Closet , whose resident cats are an attraction), and expensive restaurants ( Patralis  and  Tarsanas  vie for the best fish soup). In the summer, Spetses is a sociable place to see and be seen. But it’s also lovely off-season, when you can hike the gentle green hills or cycle the coastal road that circles the island (there’s even a Tweed Run in October). Compact, well-kept, and easily accessible from Athens (2-3 hours by catamaran), Spetses is a people-pleaser for all ages and seasons.

Where to stay on Spetses:

• For glamour:  Poseidonion Grand Hotel
• For families:  Orloff Resort
• For a private stay:  Magus House

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.

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Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Perfect Greek Islands Vacation

From choosing the right hotel to getting around, here's how to plan the ultimate island-hopping adventure in Greece.

Planning a trip to the Greek islands can be intimidating, even for the most seasoned travelers. With more than 200 inhabited isles (and about 6,000 islands and islets in total), the magnitude of the archipelagos is astounding. Each has its own character and aesthetic, from Cyclades islands dotted with white-and-blue houses to the lush and green Ionian Islands to the castle-lined Dodecanese.

Overall, Greece has six main island groups, plus a significant stand-alone: Crete. It's generally easiest to travel between islands within one group than to hop between archipelagos. In this guide, we'll break down the best Greek islands to visit, including what each island group is known for, and how to travel within each archipelago.

Getting Around the Greek Islands

While many of the Greek islands have airports, not all of them have international terminals. Many are serviced solely by domestic carriers like Aegean Airlines , and you can only fly from neighboring islands or Athens. However, some of the most popular islands (including Crete and Santorini) have international airports, where you can fly directly from cities in Europe or the Middle East.

Traveling by ferry simplifies island hopping, especially if you're just exploring one archipelago. In the Cyclades, Seajets is the high-speed ferry, though travelers can find all options (including less expensive ferries) via Greek Ferries . It is possible, of course, to rent a car in Athens — or on one of the islands — and drive it onto the ferry, essentially turning your island-hopping excursion into a seafaring road trip. However, it's easy to rent a car on the islands, too, provided you have an international driver's license with you.

When to Visit the Greek Isles

May, June, and late September are great times to travel if you're looking for nice weather but still hoping to avoid the crowds. The high season (mid-June to mid-September) offers more ferry routes, flight options, and open restaurants and beach bars, but it also means more tourists and higher prices. Each island group has its own weather to look into — Crete is warmest year-round, making it a great choice for late fall or winter. And while some Greek islands, such as Hydra, are full of locals and see tourists year-round, others, such as Santorini, get very quiet in the off-season (November to March). Here, we've put together an overview of each group of islands (and the highlights of each archipelago) to help you plan your next Grecian adventure.

The Cyclades Islands

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

This archipelago is the most common first stop for American travelers in Greece, with two of the most-visited islands: Mykonos and Santorini. A group of about two dozen inhabited islands (and 220 total isles), this bunch looks like all the postcards of Greece you've seen: white churches with blue domes and pink bougainvillea vines shading secluded side streets.

Mykonos is known for its nightlife and see-and-be-seen beaches, but it also has a gorgeous Cycladic village in its center, with windmills and winding lanes designed to confuse pirates centuries ago. Santorini is romantic and luxurious, beloved by honeymooners lounging in their private pools overlooking the caldera. For those looking for alternatives to Mykonos and Santorini, options abound. Up-and-coming Milos has otherworldly beaches and the famed sea caves, Tinos is the site of a famous Church of the Virgin Mary, and the rustic Lesser Cyclades (Koufonisia, Donousa, Schinoussa, and Iraklia) are great for camping. There are large islands, like Naxos and Syros, the archipelago's capital, and tiny ones with very little tourism, like Sikinos.

How to Travel the Cyclades Islands

The tourist season on the Cycladic islands runs from mid-April to mid-October (peaking in June, July, and August). If it's your first time in the area, you'll want to start by visiting Mykonos or Santorini. On Santorini, you'll find great wineries, like Venetsanos and Santo , while on Mykonos, it's the nightlife that will keep you coming back, with iconic clubs like Scorpios and Super Paradise Beach Club . When exploring some of the smaller islands, like Ios, Folegandros, and Milos, swim, snorkel, and wander the fortress-like capital of each island. The cobbled alleyways are home to shops, galleries, bars, and tavernas (on most islands the main town is called "Chora"; on Milos, it's "Plaka"). And don't miss sailing adventures around the Cycladic islands — look into companies like Polco Sailing on Milos and Sunset Oia Cruises on Santorini.

Where to Stay

On Santorini, start your trip by staying amid the iconic white-and-blue cliffside houses of Oia at Andronis Luxury Suites . Next, move along the caldera to the village of Imerovigli, where you'll find some of the most over-the-top and romantic hotels, including Andronis Concept Wellness Resort and Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection . Finally, stay a night in the old town of Pyrgos at Santorini Sky .

On Mykonos, start your vacation at The Wild Hotel by Interni , which has a luxurious boutique atmosphere and a private beach for guests. For an ideal honeymoon in Greece , spend a few exceptionally romantic nights at Kalesma Mykonos , where each suite has its own infinity-edge pool.

Elsewhere in the Cyclades, look for luxury boutique hotels (many, like The Wild and Kalesma, are family owned). Try Milos Breeze on Milos, Coco-Mat Eco Residences on Serifos, Calilo on Ios, and the Naxian Collection Luxury Villas & Suites on Naxos.

The largest Greek island (and the southernmost, roughly halfway between Europe and Africa), Crete could be its own country. Because there's so much to explore, many travelers focus their energy on the 160-mile-long island rather than straying to other archipelagos.

How to Travel on Crete

The island has two main airports, making Crete very easy to get to from Athens. Once you're on the island, it's a good idea to rent a car; it takes about six hours to drive from one end of Crete to the other.

The island boasts some of the best beaches in Greece , including Elafonissi, with its unparalleled pink sand, and Elounda, known for its five-star beach clubs. Hike the Samaria Gorge (which takes five to seven hours through streams and between cliffs), or walk through wildflowers along paths in the mountain villages. Visit the ruins of the Knossos Palace, home of the Minoan empire (and the dreaded Minotaur monster), and the Boutari Winery if you're interested in sampling Cretan wines. Finally, if you have time for a day trip, the isle of Spinalonga, off the coast of Elounda, is worth visiting for its wild beauty and tragic history — it was home to a colony of people affected by leprosy until 1957.

Where to Stay on Crete

With picturesque olive groves sloping down to sandy beaches, Elounda has become something of a Cretan Riviera. This stretch along the island's northeast coast is lined with swanky resorts including Crete's only Relais & Chateaux property, the Elounda Mare , and the contemporary Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa .

Outside the island's capital city of Heraklion is the family-friendly five-star beachfront resort Amirandes , part of the national Grecotel chain (take a detour to have dinner on their farm, Agreco ). Moving west, you'll find the well-preserved Venetian town of Rethymno, and more historic boutique hotel options like Kapsaliana Village Hotel , built around an 18th-century olive oil mill, and Casa Delfino , a renovated 17th-century mansion inside the walled old town of Chania.

Saronic Gulf Islands

The closest island group to Athens is also home to some of the most scenic, under-the-radar isles. Hydra, Spetses, Poros, Aegina, and little Agistri are popular with Greek weekenders and European visitors but are less known to Americans.

How to Travel the Saronic Gulf Islands

The Nantucket of Greece, car-free Hydra is tiny but mighty. Spetses has green pine trees, yachts parked in the harbor, and traditional horse-drawn carriages along its waterfronts. Family-friendly Poros, with tree-shaded beaches and a charming town dominated by a clock tower, is popular among sailing aficionados. Aegina, the closest island to Athens, has a large port town, sandy beaches, and the ancient Temple of Aphaia dedicated to the goddess of Athena. Because the Saronic Gulf islands are so close to Athens, getting here is simple — a hydrofoil from the port of Piraeus ferries you from Athens to each of these destinations.

Hydra and Spetses are brimming with converted captains' homes (we like the Cotommatae on Hydra and Orloff Resort on Spetses). On Poros, Sto Roloi is a collection of traditional island houses turned into holiday villas, while Sirene Blue Luxury Beach Resort offers plush suites and villas with access to swimming pools and a private beach. Renting a villa through Five Star Greece is also an option, especially on Aegina where weekend homes outshine the hotels. The crown jewel of the Saronic Gulf is Spetses' harborfront Poseidonion Grand Hotel, established in 1914, which is just as lavish as its name suggests.

The Ionian Islands

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Lush and green, the Ionian Islands (also known as "Eptanissia" or the "seven islands") offer unique local culture, music, art, cuisine, and architecture. While the Ionians are known, first and foremost, for Corfu, the six other main islands hold their own and attract their fair share of tourists, too.

How to Travel the Ionian Islands

On Corfu, you'll want to wander the streets of the island's UNESCO-protected Old Town . Near Corfu, tiny Paxos is covered in olive trees, with three charming bays and a satellite island, Antipaxos, known for its translucent waters. The largest of the Ionian Islands in size, Kefalonia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece and has semi-wild horses running around Mount Ainos in its center. Zakynthos is home to Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach), accessible only by sea, and iconic blue caves you can swim through. Lefkada, connected to the mainland by a bridge, has woodland villages and some of Greece's best beaches along its shores. Small Ithaka, known to Homer fans as the home of Odysseus, is still relatively undiscovered. Finally, Kythera is the outlier — it looks more Cycladic than Ionian and is more easily reached from the Peloponnese.

Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Kythera all have airports, which receive domestic flights from Athens as well as international charters and airlines.

On Corfu, options range from stylish seaside resorts like the Grecotel Corfu Imperial to historic 18th-century estates in the Tuscan-like interior such as the Pelecas Country Club . Near the Old Town, the first Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts property in Europe, Angsana Corfu , offers a gorgeous seaside enclave with 159 rooms and lavish pool villas.

On Kefalonia, the ultra-modern Tesoro Blu is an adults-only oasis just outside the village of Skala, and the Emelisse Nature Resort is a gem outside the picture-perfect town of Fiscardo. Its sister property on Ithaka, the Perantzada , is a contemporary hotel within a 19th-century mansion on the harbor in Vathy. Little Paxos is all villa rentals and rooms to rent except for a few intimate hotels, like Agali Hotel Paxos and Paxos Club Resort & Spa . On Zakynthos, Porto Zante Villas & Spa is a swanky oasis on the busy eastern coast, and in the quiet north of the island, near the blue caves, Nobelos is a four-suite, family-run hotel beloved for its organic restaurant.

The Sporades Islands

There are 24 of these green islands off of the northeastern coast of mainland Greece, but only four are inhabited — and if you've seen "Mamma Mia , " you know what they look like. Dark green pine trees, white churches, and lots of sand, rocks, and singing. It's all part of the Sporades experience.

How to Travel the Sporades Islands

Buzzy Skiathos is famous for its gold-sand beaches and nightlife, while low-key Skopelos is a natural paradise of white pebble coves, oak forests, monasteries, traditional villages, and lots of shipwrecks off the coast in the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades . Alonissos is at the center of the National Marine Park, a great base for fishing, bird-watching, and spotting the protected Mediterranean monk seal. Finally, Skyros is known for its ceramics and local crafts, churches, and gorgeous Chora, a mountaintop capital crowned by a Venetian castle.

To get to the Sporades, you can fly directly from Athens to Skiathos and Skyros. Skiathos is also served by a ferry from Thessaloniki. In summer, hydrofoils sail to all four islands from the port of Agios Konstantinos on the mainland. You can travel between the islands by ferry or private boat.

On these four islands, tourism is all about sailing, swimming, mountain biking, sea kayaking, and hiking. Hit the beaches — Skiathos's swanky Ambelakia to see and be seen, Skyros's Kalamitsa for wind-surfing, Skopelos's Hovolo for pine-scented breezes. Above all, do not miss sailing, swimming, or scuba diving in the marine park.

There are villas to rent all over the islands (like the ones with private pools run by Poikilma Villas on Alonissos). For a more full-service hotel, try the family-run Atrium Hotel above Agia Paraskevi beach in Skiathos, or the Adrina Resort & Spa on the beach in Skopelos.

The Northeast Aegean Islands

This collection of more than a dozen islands (the five most notable being Ikaria, Samos, Lemnos, Lesvos, and Chios) is the area of Greece closest to Turkey. For your journey here, you'll be richly rewarded with incredible beaches and natural wonders (a petrified forest on Lesvos, volcanic rocks and sand dunes on Limnos, and thermal springs on Ikaria).

How to Travel the Northeast Aegean Islands

Lemnos, Lesvos (also known as Mytilene), and Samos all have international airports, and Chios and Ikaria have domestic ones. There are several ferries from the port of Piraeus in Athens that can take you to these islands as well.

Visit the archaeological sites of the Temple of Hera on Samos, the acropolis on Thassos, the ancient city of Ifestia on Lemnos, and the magnificent castle atop Lesvos. While these islands are famous for their history, they're also known for their water sports. Keros Beach on Lemnos is one of the best places to kite- or windsurf in Europe. As for swimming, it's hard to beat the Seitani coves on Samos, Kipos beach on Samothrace, white-sand Seychelles on Ikaria, and Vatera on Lesvos.

Time-travel back to when Genovese nobility ruled Chios and stay at the majestic Argentikon Luxury Suites in a 16th-century estate. Sleep above popular Tsamadou beach at the Armonia Bay Hotel on Samos, overlooking the sea at Toxotis Villas on Ikaria, or on the beach in a luxury safari tent through Surf Club Limnos .

The Dodecanese Islands

This archipelago gets its name from the Greek number 12 (dodeca) because it contains — you guessed it — a dozen main islands and multiple smaller ones. Rhodes and Kos are the two largest islands, while the smaller 10 are quieter and less discovered.

How to Travel the Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes and Kos have international airports (making them popular among travelers who fly in from England and Germany), and Astypalaia, Kalymnos, and Karpathos receive domestic flights. All 12 main islands are served by ferries from the port of Athens, Piraeus.

Rhodes is known for its beautifully preserved walled city with Crusader castles and an ancient synagogue. And in the town of Lindos, there's an ancient Greek acropolis at the top of the hill, a medieval village in the middle, and a modern town on the beach at the bottom. Highlights on adjacent islands include the mansions of Kasos, the brightly painted houses of Kastellorizo, and the hilltop Chora (historic center) of Astypalea, one of the prettiest fortified villages in all of Greece. For a more active Greek isles experience, retreat to Karpathos to hike or windsurf, or scuba dive amid the World War II wrecks on Leros.

On Rhodes, soak in the atmosphere at Melenos Lindos , a 17th-century building with a pebbled mosaic roof deck offering sea views, set into the hill just under the acropolis. On Astypalaia, the island's breathtaking Chora is both the inspiration for, and the location of, Pylaia Boutique Hotel & Spa , which has a pool, spa, and ocean views from the Plori restaurant at its peak. And finally, on Patmos, overlooking the sea (and the famous Kalikatsou rock), The Petra offers luxurious suites equally convenient for the beach and the Monastery of St. John the Theologian .

The Best Cyclades Islands in May

D aring to dip your toe in the sea while planning for summer vacations. Taking long walks on paved cobbled streets, with the sun setting behind freshly whitewashed houses. The rehearsal of our summer. Introducing the spring Cyclades to visit in May.

Away from the crowds of the 15th of August, Tinos is a wonderful Cycladic Island, with so many beauties that you cannot manage to squeeze in a weekend. Tinos has fantastic beaches with water so sparkly it looks fake, and a fascinating hinterland that creates a natural dilemma of what to visit first. First, go to Kardiani between plane trees and running water? Then to Volax with the background of the lunar landscape of the spooky rocks that embrace it, and the valleys with the doves that stretch around it? Or maybe Kalloni under stone arches and between flowered courtyards? But what about Pyrgos ? If it were not a village, it could very well be an open-air museum of traditional architecture and sculpture.

As it is the greenest of the Cyclades, spring could only fit like a glove. The paths of Andros , which meander between idyllic gorges and running waters, are at their best at this time of year. Moreover, its Chora, which is one of the most beautiful of the Cyclades, is covered in orchards and plane trees. Finally, Korthi and Stenies villages with their beautiful mansions will leave you in awe.

You may know already that Syros is not famous for its beaches, especially as it belongs to a group of islands with magical waters. As there is some truth to that, there is a side to Syros that is extremely unique and breathtaking. Syros is an island made to be visited in Spring. Take spring walks among the colorful mansions of Ermoupolis , drink ouzo by the sea, go on spectacular routes with stunning vistas, and sightsee in museums like the one that tells the life of Markos Vamvakaris , and its local cuisine is no doubt one of the best Cyclades cuisines.

Probably the best cuisine of the Cyclades. One of the liveliest Chores in the Cyclades. A super romantic old capital called Kastro overlooks one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Aegean. And among all these, Sifnos boasts long sandy beaches, pebble coves, and shallow waters for families to have peace of mind, but also secret beaches for couples and hermits.

Paths that connect beautiful Cycladic villages, mysterious ancient cities, and beaches with waters that shimmer in the light of the spring sun. This is the first thing that comes to mind when we think of Tzia – even more than her beautiful Chora, Ioulida , or the cosmopolitan Vourkari , which so unfairly loaded the label of the expensive island. Walking under the bright light of the skin-friendly spring sun, and give it a chance to prove to you that it is much more than the “island of yachts”.

Want to visit a Cycladic Island in Spring, but don’t know which one or how to start planning? Contact us here and one of our expert travel designers will assist in creating a personalized travel itinerary based on your needs.

What to Do in Greece in May: Sites and Activities for 2024

If you are wondering what is like in Greece in May, the answer is that it is the perfect time to be in Greece! May is the best month (along with September ) to visit mainland Greece and the Greek islands and have a wonderful vacation.

The fields and the valleys are still green and fully blossomed wherever you go to the country, making the outdoor activities magical. For 2024, Greek Orthodox Easter will be May 5th so this will be a fantastic opportunity to experience up close the tradition and the Easter celebrations.

The weather in Greece in May is almost summerish, sunny, and warm with little rain and the seawater is warm enough for swimming (especially towards the end of May).

Other great reasons to visit Greece in May are the shoulder season hotel bargains and the lack of huge crowds in the sites, as it happens in July and August. So, all that adds up to perhaps the most perfect month of the year!

The Top Things to Do in Greece in May are:

• Explore Athens
• Go to Popular Islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Rhodes
• Delve into Unique Pelion Mt Villages
• Marvel at a 3-Day Trip to Delphi and Meteora
• Visit Peloponnese’s Archaeological Sites
• Discover Mamma Mia’s Film Destinations

*Some of the links below are affiliate links. That means I may make a commission if you click and buy. The commission comes at no additional cost to you.

Best Things to Do in Greece in May!

1. visit athens, the ancient capital of greece.

Athens is a large, modern metropolis, adorned with famous monuments such as the UNESCO Acropolis Citadel and with thousands of history behind it.

Strolling Athens streets is a wonderful experience as you come across relics of the civilizations and religions that have passed through the city during the centuries. The most prominent ancient Greek sites go back to the Mycenean era, all the way to the Classical, and Hellenistic times, a little before the invasion of the Romans.

Athens’ picturesque areas like Plaka, house beautiful monuments from Empires such as the Roman, the Byzantine , the Ottoman , and everything in between.

May is a perfect month to visit Athens’ numerous sites and museums, in a much less crowded fashion, and also to hit the nearby beaches! You can see the Athens Monuments in two days and organize day trips to nearby Saronic islands or sites.

Related Posts for Athens in May:

• Acropolis of Athens FAQ
• Athens Riviera Greece
• Sounion Cape and the Temple of Poseidon
• Marathon Town and Lake
• Full-Day Tour of Athens and Cape Sounion

2. Go to Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Rhodes

May is the best time to go to the super-popular Greek Islands for several reasons:

• The sea will be warm enough to swim, especially in Rhodes which can be hot during the summer
• There will be no huge crowds to watch the mesmerizing sunset in Santorini and can find tables much easier in the best Santorini diners
• Most businesses will be open and running and will be offering Santorini Catamaran tours or Mykonos Guided City Walking Tour with Photoshoot

• You can drink a cocktail at Little Venice in Mykonos without breaking the bank or book in advance your seat
• The hotels in the islands have still shoulder season prices

• If you visit Paros and the other Cycladic Islands in early May, they will be covered in wildflowers, and herbs like wild oregano, and thyme, and they will be at their greenest
• The ferries from Athens in May run frequently between the islands check FerryScanner for rates and timetables

3. Explore Pelion Mt Unique Villages

Greece in May is especially beautiful in the countryside and in particular on Pelion Mt. or the Mountain of the Centaurus. Pelion is a deeply forested and fertile peninsula 336 km from Athens (3 hours and 45 minutes) and 219 km from Thessaloniki.

Pelion has 28 traditional, and picturesque villages and some of them are by the sea with amazing sandy beaches. Pelion villages are very popular for visitors who wish to experience authentic Greece and visit centuries-old monasteries, folklore museums, and old libraries.

Some of the best things to do in Pelion in May are to swim in the warm waters of the Pagasetic Gulf, take a cooking class , sea Kayaking , or e-bike tour of South Pelion .

Read more about some of the Pelion Villages of Portaria , Makr i nitsa , Zagora , and Milies .

4. Enjoy a 3-Day Trip to Delphi and Meteora

Greece is a mountainous country so some sites are much more difficult to get to them than others especially if you are visiting during the heat of the Greek summer. Two great examples are the steep uphills of Delphi and the endless steps to get to some of the Meteora Monasteries .

Delphi and Meteora are best visited in May and on a 3-day trip, spending a night in Delphi and one night in Meteora. A draft of the itinerary can be:

Day 1: Athens – Ancient Olympia in the Peloponnese – Galaxidi seaside town, 30 km away from Delphi. Spend your evening in the beautiful Galaxidi and stay at the best Boutique Hotel in town with the most delicious handmade marmalades: Ganimede Hotel, Galaxidi .

Day 2: Visit the Delphi Archaeological Site, stroll Arachova town, go to UNESCO Osios Loukas Monastery, drive to Meteora, and stay overnight in Kalambaka town. The best Hotel to stay at in Kalambaka is Archontiko Mesohori Suites & Apartments .

Day 3: Visit Meteora Monasteries.

Hassle-free 3-day tour to Delphi and Meteora organized by Get Your Guide Operators

5. Discover Peloponnese’s Archaeological Sites

If you love the combination of history and stunning landscapes, then you should visit the Peloponnese in May, where everything is still blossoming. Peloponnese houses some spectacular Archaeological sites which are wonderfully located near beautiful towns and lovely seaside villages.

The most important archaeological sites in the Peloponnese, separated into the regions they belong to are:

• Corinth : Ancient Corinth , Ancient Isthmia , Iraion Perachora Loutraki
• Argolida : UNESCO Mycenae , UNESCO Sanctuary of Asklepios in Epidaurus , Ancient Argos , UNESCO Tiryns , Ancient Nemea , Acropolis of Kazarma, Ancient Assini
• Lakonia : UNESCO Mystras, Monemvasia Castle, Ancient Sparta
• Achaia : Patras Roman Odeon and Stadium
• Messinia : Ancient Messene, Nestor’s Palace
• Arkadia : The Lykosoura Site
• Ilia : UNESCO Ancient Olympia, UNESCO Temple of Epicurius Apollo at Bassae , Ancient Ilida

The best way to visit the sites is by renting a car and driving to the areas.

6. Explore Mamma Mia’s Destinations

This is probably the most fun adventure you can indulge yourself in while visiting Greece in May! The popular film ‘Mamma Mia’ was filmed on the islands of Skopelos and Skiathos in the Sporades group and Damouchari village in eastern Pelion.

The main shooting of the film took place in Skopelos: the wedding chapel is Agios Ioannis in Kastri, and the beach is in Kastani.

Mamma Mia in Skiathos was filmed in the old port next to the picturesque Bourtzi (the scene with the boat at the beginning of the film). The third location is in Pelion , in Damouchari’s tiny port village and this is where Meryl Streep dives from the platform, while all the ladies sing with her the ‘Dancing Queen’ while walking down the steps.

To visit the Sporades islands you need to go to Volos port and from there take the ferries to Skopelos or Skiathos. Book your ferry transfer with FerryScanner .

Read here How Best to Tour Mamma Mia’s Locations in Greece

Events to Participate in May

• Athens Street Food Festival , with recipes from Greece and all over the world.
• Every May at Skiathos the popular match race sailing of the Skiathos Palace Cup takes place.

What to Wear in Greece in May

May’s highest temperatures vary between 22.8 and 30.2 C and the lowest between 11 and 18 C. For this kind of weather, you need to pack a smart combination of summer (t-shirts and shorts) and warmer clothes for cooler nights or a sudden change of weather.

I would suggest a smart bikini bottom that you can combine with different tops for the beach. Another essential item is the Spyder Women’s Encore Fleece Jacket (amazon), warm, classy, and convenient for any outdoor activity or the chillier nights in Greece.

Read my Detailed Packing List for Greece here

Plan My Trip to Greece

Do you need a custom travel itinerary or a transfer within Greece ? Are you traveling solo, with your family or friends and need a tailor-made multi-day tour or a transfer?

If yes, please visit my dedicated Plan My Trip Page for a free itinerary!

Top Things to Do in Greece in May:

• Go to popular Islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Rhodes
• Delve into unique Pelion Mt villages
• Marvel at a 3-Day trip to Delphi and Meteora
• Visit Peloponnese’s archaeological sites
• Discover Mama Mia’s Film Destinations

Where is your dream destination in Greece?

I’d love to hear about where you’re spending your vacation this year, and if you have any exciting travel plans! There are so many things to do in Greece in May, especially if this is your first time in the country. I hope that you get the chance to try as many as possible. Till next time, Evgenia❤️

All rights reserved © Travel the Greek Way. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (photographs, text, links) is strictly prohibited.

Travel Guides for Greece

• Greece Packing List – What to pack for a 10-day trip to Greece
• First Time to Greece – Most Important FAQ
• Athens Hotels Near Acropolis
• Athens Apartments Near Acropolis
• Best Athens Beach Hotels

Essential Travel Info for Greece

• ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Greek: “Ya sou” and “Efharisto”
• Booking.com : I use Booking.com because I can get the best deals on hotels and apartments, free cancellations, and great prices!
• All-Inclusive Resorts in Greece
• FerryScanner to book f erries to the Greek Islands
• Rent an Affordable Car in Greece
• Athens Metro Website (timetables and ticket info)
• Map of Athens Metro
• Trains (Hellenic Train)
• Public Buses KTEL
• Get Your Guide : For all your day or multi-day tours and city guide needs, I use Get Your Guide
• Emergency Numbers Anywhere in Greece: AMBULANCE 166 – FIRE 199 – POLICE 100 – EMERGENCY NUMBER 112

Evgenia Mataragka

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The Best Greek Islands to Visit in May and June

Nicki lahiri.

It’s not hard to find a great place to visit in Greece , especially if you’re headed to the islands – but not all of these are the same. Depending on your tastes and preferences, some locations will better tick all of your must-have boxes… and then some.

There is a wide choice of luxury hotels, apartments and villas to choose from, and a laid-back vibe that draws visitors in and brings smiles to all.

The seasons can have a profound effect on a place too, of course, so if you’re planning to visit in May or June – or both – here are some of our top recommendations.

Ionian Islands

To the west of the mainland lie these jewels of the Ionian Sea. Worth a visit, every single one of them.

This is the largest island in the Ionian Sea, and though it has become a popular family destination, the island is large enough to seem uncrowded, even when a significant number of people are holidaying there.

The area is beautiful, with castles and monasteries that are favourites for photographers, as well as charming villages that make a pleasant complement to the bustling port village of Fiscardo.

Kefalonia is especially known for its exotic beaches. Myrtos beach , for example, is a crescent of fine pebbles, nestled in a little half-moon bay. The water conditions can vary from placid to a bit bumpy, depending on the winds, but the water is warm and looks stunning in any weather. Other favourites are Antisamos, Lourdas, and Skala.

Among the most well-known of the Greek Islands, Corfu has some of the best sights Greece has to offer. From steep-walled ocean coves with warm blue waters, to majestic churches, fortresses and palaces, the area is a feast for the eyes.

Visitors can walk through the ancient Roman village of Kassiopi, dare the steep and narrow roads down to hidden beaches, or catch a summer panigýria , a religious celebration that mixes all the best parts of festivals and fairs.

The moderate rainfall from September to June nourishes the many olive trees that grow throughout the countryside. A drive along the narrow roads is a pleasant experience and shows off a different, more rustic side of the island.

Among the best beaches to visit are Marathiá, Gardénos, Ágios, Geórgios, Págon and Afiónas.

Lefkada is still a hidden gem of the Ionian islands. Connected to the Greek mainland by a bridge, it is easily accessible and yet has all the charm and relaxed feel of a more remote Greek destination.

For a beach with rugged white cliffs at your back, a long, sandy beach under your feet, and the clear blue waters lapping up to your toes, you can do no better than Egremni.

You’ll be able to complement your hours on the beach with a few touring the rustic villages of the area, where people live much as they have since the early 1900s. For something a bit more modern, Nydri and Vassiliki have seen a bit more development and are popular with water sport enthusiasts.

Paxos (or Paxi) is one of the less-developed islands, but has a magnetic charm that has visitors returning again and again. It is small, only seven miles long and three wide, but that’s a positive rather than a negative, as you can explore the island by car, on foot, by bike, or even boat – nothing is too far inland.

There are seafront cafés that aren’t too traditionalist to sell you a cool frappé, local bakeries make bread in wood ovens (but you’ll have to stand in line for loaves), and there are numerous restaurants throughout the island, most of them offering delicious traditional Greek cuisine.

Some visitors use Paxos as a quiet hub from which to explore, taking advantage of the water taxis and caiques to visit Anti-Paxos and Mongonissi, both worthy destinations in their own right.

Parga, though it is a town, gets a special mention here as it is perhaps the most popular summer spot in Greece, and has that distinct island feel to it.

It is secluded from urban centres, nestled beside three little bays on the Ionian Sea. The shoreline is lined with crescent-shaped beaches, hundreds of sun chairs, and popular hotels. There are tapas bars, restaurants, and resorts to suit every taste for quality and atmosphere.

When you take a break from sun and sand, a great pastime is the Castle of Parga, dominating the promontory between the bays. The café there is packed with charm and has wonderful views over the town and water.

It’s easy to see why Parga is so popular; it combines the best of beach-lounging, wandering village streets, and stunning spots to eat and enjoy the laid-back charm of Greece.

Aegean Islands

To the east of the Mainland, the Aegean Sea has a wealth of small and larger islands, many with distinct features and local cuisines.

Despite its great beauty and the fame it garnered as the shooting location of the hit musical Mama Mia, Skopelos maintains its traditional feel and authentic Greek culture. This is likely due to the fact that the island is a bit more remote than some of the others, accessed by the ferry from Skiathos, rather than by plane.

The towns of Skopelos and Glossa are everything you would expect of a postcard setting. White buildings, roofed with terracotta tiles and punctuated by olive trees pocking their canopies up from the narrow streets and courtyards. They are not overrun with tourists, so don’t expect a resort feel (especially from Glossa) – they are unspoilt, genuine Greek towns.

Maybe, for this reason, the beaches are not revered as the best in Greece, but they are pleasant and suit the place well. For a true getaway from the rush of everyday life, it’s tough to beat Skopelos.

Rich in beaches, and first developed for tourism back in the 1960s, Skiathos is a concentrated treasure of beautiful resorts, great hotels, and stunning waterside retreats.

The sea here heats up in late spring, but many of the beachside bars and taverns are closed until the end of May, and the place is overrun by the end of July, so June is the sweet spot here.

You’d be forgiven for mistaking beach photos from Skiathos for Caribbean snapshots; the water is very nearly the same, dazzling colour, and the bright paint on many of the buildings evokes a similar festive-island feel.

When away from the beach, a walk above the old Port will reveal charming historical churches and plazas, a monastery, and the original, 16th-century stronghold of Kástro, once used to protect the island from pirates and now a hauntingly attractive ruin.

The crescent-shaped island of Santorini is actually the rim of a volcano that once towered up above the sea. Now it is a masterpiece of natural and human-made structures.

As you approach the port through the broken ring of the caldera, the first thing you’ll notice is the deep blue of the waters, the black rock beneath it rising up into variegated cliff faces, speckled with the traditional white-washed walls of Greek buildings along the top of them. Truly beautiful, and better than flying in.

Whereas the cuisine there is traditional, it is unique to the island, drawing on fresh ingredients flavoured by the volcanic soil. You can even take a class in local cooking from the chefs at Selene. There are ocean-side gems too, with rustic and delicious dishes with a view.

Museums , galleries, volcanic-sand beaches, and tours of local winery-breweries will fill your hours with satisfied pleasure.

Mykonos is known for excellent beaches and lively parties. If you prefer the former to the latter, visit in May or the first half of June, while it is still quite quiet.

Most of the island is crisscrossed with little roads to explore and a trip along the coastline will reveal example after example of hidden little beaches, most with waterside restaurants and many with hotels as well.

The coastline – indeed most of the island – is rocky and rugged, but the numerous crescents of sandy beach are sheltered and comfortable, with plenty of facilities and conveniences.

Wander the marble streets of the capital town, Hóra, and discover purple-flowered bougainvillea trees, churches, museums, and even Castle Panigirakis.

We will admit, Pelion is not an island, but it is worth including here because it is located on a ridge of mountains between the Pagasetic Gulf and the Aegean Sea, with panoramic views of both.

Some say the mountain was the home of ancient gods, and you can find a hint of the divine there, amid groves of olive trees and bounding waterfalls. These are complemented by quaint villages and a historical railway that has been running for the last hundred years.

Ride the little train, take in your breath as you step amid the frescoes of Taksiarchon Church, do some horseback riding, or take in – literally – some of the many samples of local Greek cuisine.

And the beaches? Excellent conditions and wide-open views on both sides. Simply lovely.

The Greek islands offer a wealth of options that will satisfy and delight whatever hopes you have in a holiday destination. Choose from a long-developed area like Skiathos, or the more remote charm of Skopelos or Paxos, or any point in between.

Regardless of your selection, you’ll have excellent local Greek cuisine at your fingertips, lovely beaches beneath your toes, and a breeze of relaxation drifting through each day of your holiday .

The islands of Greece do not disappoint.

Call us on 01730 711010 or email  [email protected] for more information on the best holidays in the Greek Islands.

You may also like the following:

• Luxury World-Class Sani Resorts In Greece
• Go to Award-winning Ikos Resorts in Greece for a luxury all-inclusive beach holiday
• Romantic beach holidays

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How to spend the perfect food weekend on the Greek island of Tinos

This little outpost in the Aegean has become famous among Greeks as an island of gastronomy in recent years.

The Cycladic island of Tinos, southeast across the Aegean Sea from Athens, is said to owe its rock-strewn landscape to a mighty clash of the Titans. In Ancient Greek mythology, the Titans slung colossal granite boulders at each other during a brawl, and these now dot the island’s wildflower meadows, marble quarries and sprawling vineyards. But this breezy little island isn’t just famous for its scenery. Blessed with fertile land and a resulting bounty of locally grown produce, Tinos has become known as an island of good food among Greeks in recent years, and Athenian chefs will often leave their city restaurants in the warmer months to head here for a feast of a summer. Tinos Food Paths, a festival of gastronomy, celebrated in the second week of May each year, marks the beginning of the season of indulgence. Here’s how you can enjoy your own gastronomic journey around Tinos.  

Morning Start the day with breakfast at one of the oldest cafes on the island. O Megalos Kafenes is a traditional Greek cafe in Pyrgos, one of the most beautiful villages in Tinos, which sits amid quarries of the rich, white marble that’s found in abundance here. Pull up a pew at a marble table in the dappled shade of an enormous plane tree, and sip on a silty Greek coffee with a galaktoboureko pastry on the side — layers of crispy filo filled with creamy custard.

Afternoon Kolimvithra beach, on the north coast of the island, is one to head to for a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere and a great surf scene. Thanks to the strong winds of the Aegean, this stretch of sand gets good surf and is the best spot on Tinos to learn to ride the waves. A pop-up beach bar in a converted VW van adds to the hippy feel. Choose from a selection of fresh village salads and acai bowls made with local produce such as wild strawberries.

Evening Don’t turn up to this one without a booking; To Thalassaki has become so popular that the yachting crowd regularly sail over from nearby Mykonos. Specialising in Tinian seafood with a refined twist, it’s so close to the sea’s edge that your flip-flops could be in danger of being washed away by the waves. The mussel, shrimp and calamari pasta dishes are famous here, as are the ouzo-steamed mussels. Just above To Thalassaki sits Exo Meria, a lofty bar overlooking the inky-blue Aegean with one of the best sunset views on the island.  

Morning Hidden from the view of marauding pirates, Tripotamos village in the south was cleverly built as a maze-like settlement, which only reveals itself once you step inside its narrow alleyways. The Crossroads Inn here offers one of the best breakfasts, with a focus on Tinian produce. Start the day with organic eggs, vine-ripened tomatoes and sourdough bread, followed by traditional spanakopita pies, Greek yoghurt, honey and a selection of home-made jams, marmalades and cheeses.  

Afternoon Tinos is giving Santorini a run for its money where wine is concerned. Thanks to its rich, volcanic soil, the island has become a hotspot for oenophiles, and it now has around 10 producers working on their family vineyards. Varieties range from a fresh Assyrtiko, a refreshing, dry white, to the dark and spicy Mavrotragano. The most beautiful vineyards on the island are Volacus and T-Oinos, where you can sip a chilled glass in the afternoon sun.

Evening Tinos’s traditional dishes are what lure Greeks from the mainland. The local must-tries include fourtalia — a fluffy omelette made with potatoes — and louza, the island’s spice-cured pork, which was introduced to Tinos by the conquering Venetians around 800 years ago. You can find it at family-run Teréza’s in Mirsini village towards the south of the island. It’s a tiny spot that also doubles as a convenience store, with pretty potted geraniums dotted around the yard.    

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The Best Hotels On The Greek Islands To Visit This Summer

By Monica Mendal

The Greek Islands are having a moment and the best hotels in Greece are ready to meet that moment. Large hotel operators are expanding in the ancient country, with One&Only Resorts announcing their latest opening in the Greek island of Kéa opening later this spring, and InterContinental Resort Crete announcing the development of its first property on the island, which will open in late 2024.

Vogue ’s guide to the best Greek Islands hotels:

• Where to stay in Milos: Skinopi Lodge
• Where to stay in Antiparos: The Rooster
• Where to stay in Sifnos: Verina Astra
• Where to stay in Mykonos: Kalesma
• Where to stay in Patmos: Pagostas
• Where to stay in Therasia: Perivolas Hideaway
• Where to stay in Crete: Ammos
• Where to stay in Rhodes: Marco Polo Mansion
• Where to stay in Andros: Mèlisses
• Where to stay in Kea: Kea Retreat

It’s no surprise Greece is growing in popularity within the travel industry: from history as old as time to a scenic Aegean coastline (the longest stretch on the Mediterranean) and island-hopping filled with bustling tavernas and the warmth of Greek hospitality, Greece has more than enough cultural attractions to fulfil our longing for far-flung travel.

Below are the best hotels – from tried-and-true favourites to newcomers; large luxury hotels to charming boutique stays – to book this summer on the Greek Islands.

Skinopi Lodge, Milos

By Hannah Jackson

By Laura Lajiness Kaupke

If you’re seeking a break from blue-and-white architecture and lively tavernas, book a stay at Skinopi Lodge on the island of Milos for a few days of escape. While it takes some off-roading to get to the property (a four-wheel drive vehicle is highly encouraged), it will have been well worth the trek. Wake up in one of the three minimalist stone homes atop grassy cliffs that overlook the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Then, spend a quiet afternoon reading ensconced on the lounge chairs outside your villa, or take the winding stairs down the cliff to your own private watering hole.

Amenities: Private deck to the sea, free parking on site, fully-equipped kitchens, organic vegetable garden

Editor’s tip: Ask the owner, Nausika, to draft you a localised itinerary of the best beaches according to the island’s winds that day.

Address: Skinopi 848 00, Greece

Verina Astra, Sifnos

Foodies won’t want to miss visiting the tiny island of Sifnos, arguably the best gastronomic destination in the Cyclades. Staying at Verina Astra is what farm-to-table dreams are made of. Tucked on a quiet hill in Poulati overlooking the castle, it’s a short two-mile drive from Artemonas, the most beautiful village on the island. At Verina Astra, you’ll have all the local must-sees of Sifnos at your fingertips. The property is adorned with local pottery (a heritage craft on the island that dates back to 3000 BC) and features a restaurant that serves as the perfect introduction to Sifnos cuisine with locally-grown produce, most of which comes from their own orchard.

Amenities: Free parking, spa, restaurant, bar, pool, family rooms, hiking trails, rocky beach access

Bonus tip: The hotel partners with local artisans for travellers interested in booking pottery classes with the island’s master craftsman, where you’ll spend two hours making your own pottery and learning about the traditional techniques while accompanied by an interpreter.

Address: Poulatis, Sifnos 840 03, Greece

The Rooster, Antiparos

The island of Antiparos’s low profile affords travellers a more exclusive getaway than its busier neighbour, Paros. With its guarantee of seclusion and privacy, the island has become a celebrity haven (so much so that Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson bought a home there). The island is sure to get buzzier with the opening of the new boutique hotel, The Rooster . The hotel, which opened on June 1st, was designed to exist in harmony with its surroundings. It puts an emphasis on respectful tourism by way of wellness, sustainability, and organic food. Guests have 17 individual houses to choose from, each with its own private sundeck providing the best sunset views on the island. Using natural materials, lime-wash walls, and earth-tone decor, The Rooster offers a laid-back approach to a very high-end stay.

Amenities: Free parking, spa, fitness centre, pool, restaurants, bar, free breakfast, beach access, boutique

Editor’s tip: Ask the staff to pack you a picnic basket to take down to the rustic and service-free beach at the base of the property.

Address: Livadia Bay, Antiparos 840 07, Greece

Kalesma, Mykonos

New this summer to Mykonos is Kalesma, a design-forward hotel dreamed up by two Greek designers who aimed to create a traditional Cycladic property with a modern spin for hedonists who value privacy and being off the beaten path. Set on a hilltop overlooking Ornos Bay, the hotel’s 27 luxe accommodations are spread across five acres of a lush hillside. The property features furniture by designer Rick Owens and one-of-a-kind decor by local Greek craftsmen. The hotel’s restaurant, Pere Ubu, sits at the property’s peak, a privileged vantage point where you can catch the sunrise and the sunset from the same spot.

Amenities: Free parking, restaurant, bar, pool, private chapel, boutique, spa, fitness centre

Editor’s tip: No need to leave behind your furry friends because the property is pet friendly!

Address: Aleomandra, Mykonos, Mikonos 846 00, Greece

Pagostas , Patmos

Maria Lemos (of fashion wholesale agency Rainbowwave and the beloved London shop Mouki Mou) and her husband Gregoris quietly unveiled Pagostas , a three-room guest house hotel, last year on the paradisal island of Patmos – and it’s since become the fashion crowd’s best-kept secret. Set within a jasmine-scented courtyard and walled garden designed by renowned landscape gardener Helli Pangalou, they preserved the traditional architectural features of the monastic guesthouse, with its stone walls, vaulted archways, and terracotta floor tiles. The three large guest-rooms are filled with furniture made by local carpenters and sourced at antique markets, while textiles were hand-loomed in Athens and glasses hand-blown in Crete. Guests are encouraged to make themselves at home in any of the various shared spaces – especially at breakfast, which is served anytime and anywhere.

Amenities: Free breakfast, dining room, rooftop terrace, garden terrace, street parking

Editor’s tip: Before heading out each night, don’t miss out on sunset drinks on the furnished rooftop terrace overlooking Chora.

Address: Patmos 885 00, Greece

Perivolas Hideaway, Therasia

One nautical mile west of Santorini, opposite the village of Oia, lies the tiny island of Therasia, accessible via boat departing from Ammoudi Bay. While Perivolas Hideaway may look familiar in its design that marries the same minimalist principles of its Santorini sister property, it is optimally carved into the base of a cliff where it meets a cove, providing even more intimacy and the elemental luxury of waking up with the sea at your feet. Rounded archways and sumptuous white interiors enhanced with subtle pops of pink and purple (a Perivolas signature) make up the four airy rooms, each boasting unobstructed views of your private beach, which is equipped with sea sporting equipment, like kayaks and water skis, as well as snorkels and diving equipment. Along with the various sundecks scattered throughout the property, there’s also a spa and a salt water pool – but with a location like this one, do you really need that?

Amenities: Private beach access, terraces and sundecks, daily meals prepared by in-house cook, spa, board games, books and movie library, pool, private helipad, private boat dock, on-site water activities

Editor’s tip: All meals are prepared by the in-house chef and included in the cost of the booking so you never have to leave the property.

Address: Thirassia, 847 02, Greece

Ammos Hotel, Crete

Photo: Courtesy of Ammos Hotel

Ammos Hotel, a family-friendly beachfront hotel located on Crete’s sandy Glaros beach in the village of Chania, is a unique confluence of art and hospitality. A collection of eclectic contemporary art pieces by Muller van Severen, Pierre Paulin, and Faye Toogood fill the property’s public spaces, while 33 minimalist rooms equipped with a kitchenette and furnished balcony or terrace are scattered around fragrant gardens of jasmine and pomegranates. An all-day menu (as well as a kid’s menu) offering Greek classics with a twist are served anywhere – from the airy and quirky Ettore Sottsass-filled dining room, to the mid-century pool reminiscent of a Slim Aarons photograph. Despite the cool design vibe here, there’s nothing pretentious about Ammos Hotel, which is ultimately a family hotel with a friendly atmosphere – evidenced by its most beloved employee: a Boston Terrier named Jonny.

Amenities: Free on-site parking, restaurant, rooftop bar, gym, pool and kid’s pool, beach access, dedicated kid’s play area

Editor’s tip: Don’t miss the sourdough breads and pastries baked fresh every morning courtesy of the hotel’s new bakery in town, Red Jane.

Address : Irakli Avgoula, Chania, Crete 731 00, Greece

The eco-minded, adults-only Oku Kos – located on a private beach only accessible to its guests – is designed to feel like its own private village, where all aspects of the island can be enjoyed without leaving the property. One and two-story cubist villas surround the hotel’s multiple gardens and patios with large terraces that extend into private outdoor spaces. The indoor-outdoor restaurant, featuring fresh and colourful Greek cuisine, can be enjoyed poolside or beachside with the vibey tunes of the house DJ drifting on the breeze. After a long day in the sun, the spa awaits, offering a range of holistic treatment options, as well as a glass-walled sauna that overlooks the lush courtyard and a domed hammam.

Amenities: Restaurants, bars, spa, gym, library, concept shop, pool, private beach

Editor’s tip: Don’t miss the morning yoga sessions held on the open-air yoga terrace or the beach pavilion.

Address: Sikamini, Marmari, Kos, 85, Kos 853 00, Greece

Marco Polo Mansion, Rhodes

Photo: Courtesy of Marco Polo Mansion

While you’re not staying here for its modern amenities, there’s a familiar sense of warmth that permeates the intimate atmosphere at Marco Polo Mansion, a small boutique hotel located on a cobbled backstreet in the old town of Rhodes. That feeling that you’re staying at a friend’s home is likely the result of the warm hospitality from the family that runs it. Set within the walls of an old Turkish house are 10 bohemian-style rooms flooded with colour and character, thoughtfully decorated with wrought-iron beds, tiled floors, and woven Bavarian rugs collected from the family’s travels. Many of the rooms surround the secret garden, where a memorable breakfast is served to guests each morning under the fragrant shade of orange and lemon trees. But the best part is that hotel guests have a standing dinner reservation at the hotel’s restaurant – ask anyone on the island and they’ll tell you it’s the best seat in town.

Amenities: Free breakfast, restaurant, secret garden

Editor’s tip: At dinner, don’t miss the standout dishes: the shrimp dolmadakia and the fish Giouvarlakia, which is a fish version of meatball soup.

Address: Agiou Fanouriou 40-42, Rodos 851 00, Greece

Mèlisses, Andros

Photo: Courtesy of Mèsisses

Descending down a winding dirt road (four-wheel drive vehicle encouraged!) on the rugged western coast of Andros, you’ll find Mèlisses, a small family B&B ensconced within fields of fruit trees and fresh herbs and spices, and the property’s own fragrant garden stocked with seasonal vegetables that’ll surely make their way onto your plate throughout your stay. The simple joys of life at this isolated hamlet lies in savouring the slow beauty of your wild surroundings. Mèlisses comprises five simple bedrooms, each with sea views, spread across the main house and secluded private guest houses. Along with the two salt-water pools, stone steps descend to a rocky platform that leads directly to the sea. A property blessed by such a surfeit of God’s natural bounty, it’s hard to imagine things could get better here, until you make your way to the kitchen-living room, which is managed by the gracious host, Allegra, whose background in hospitality and gastronomy is evident as she cooks, guides, and runs workshops on the property with a natural warmth and ease. While you’re ways away from the throngs of civilisation (the closest village is located 20 minutes away), you’ll never feel alone here, especially in the mornings where you’ll congregate among other guests for a shared breakfast over a long wooden table scenically set and prepared by Allegra.

Amenities: Two pools, free breakfast, meals upon request, vegetable garden, private sea access, open-space kitchen/living room

Editor’s tip: Consider booking one of Allegra’s creative retreats , ranging from cooking, painting, to floral workshops.

Address: Andros 845 00, Greece

Kea Retreat, Kea

Photo: Courtesy of Kea Retreat

Wellness travellers will be tempted by the offerings at Kea Retreat, a family-run boutique hotel located in a hillside nature reserve above the pristine blue waters of Psathi Bay. Combining the family’s love for Greek culture, nature and food, with their passion for yoga and mindfulness, Kea Retreat offers travellers the option to book a five or six-night retreat or simply indulge in a relaxing and restorative hotel stay. Accommodations are built into 100-year-old kathikies, or traditional stone farmhouses, which are bathed in natural light and stocked with locally produced bath towels, pareos, and robes for guests to don throughout their stay. In addition to the traditional wellness activities offered on site, the hotel is introducing a new fine dining tasting menu restaurant this season, Lygaria, which will rotate dishes depending on the week’s available produce and fresh catches.

Amenities: Restaurant, bar, pool, beachfront access, communal lounge areas, yoga pavilion

Editor’s Tip: Try a traditional ouzo at the bar at sunset.

Address: Οdos xoris onomasia Kea, Orkos, 84002, Greece

Onar Andros

Photo: Courtesy of Onar Andros

Onar Andros is an eco-retreat located on a protected wetland on the east side of Andros. Following a bumpy drive to this glamping sanctuary overlooking the majestic Achla Beach, you’re greeted by the friendly staff, clad in their own T-shirts and flip flops, immediately setting the tone for the casual atmosphere of the place. Luxury takes on a new meaning here – while there are no modern facilities, like a spa or fitness centre, the beauty of its 10 traditional stone cottages, pool deck, and shaded lounge areas framing the lush natural landscape, as well as the delicious meals prepared using ingredients plucked from the hotel’s organic farm, will surely make you forget about all that. Best yet, a three-minute walk alongside the river that runs parallel to the property leads guests to the famed crescent-shaped Achla Beach, famous for its white sands and crystalline waters.

Amenities: Restaurant, bar, free parking, family rooms, beachfront access

Editor’s Tip: If you want to have your meals at the beach, a member of the team will pack you a cooler to go.

Address: Ahla Beach, Andros, Andros Island, 84500

Gundari Resort, Folegandros (May 2024)

Photo: Courtesy of Gundari Resort

Of the lesser-known islands in the Cyclades, the tiny island of Folegandros has always stood out for its abundance of breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and traditional villages. This season marks the unveiling of the island’s first luxury 5-star resort, Gundari, located in a bird wildlife reserve on the southeastern coast, just a short distance from the main village of Chora. The hotel hosts 27 suites and villas, made of stone that was excavated on-site, with private solar heated infinity pools cascading over the cliffside. Elsewhere on the property, guests will find a cliff-edge main pool featuring a swim up cocktail bar and three additional dining spaces, which include the main restaurant and two bars curated by Greece’s first Michelin-starred chef, Lefteris Lazarou, who uses ingredients sourced from Gundari’s own organic farm, offering a true farm-to-table experience.

Amenities: Spa, gym, restaurant, bars, pool

Editor’s tip: Forget a boring rental and explore the island in style with an electric mini moke or electric Fiat 500, which are both available for rent at the hotel.

Address: Petousis 840 11, Folegandros, Greece

One&Only Kea Island (May 2024)

Just a 30-minute boat ride from Athens, Kea has long been a favourite weekend getaway for Athenians. Following the success of One&Only Aesthesis, the One&Only brand’s first resort in Greece, which opened on the Athenian Riviera in 2023, they’re unveiling their first property on the Greek Islands with One&Only Kea Island with direct speedboat transfers available between the two resorts. In keeping with the brand’s ultra-luxury alchemy, One&Only Kea Island promises discretion and seclusion within its 63 villas perched above a protected cove on the wild west coast of the island. Each of the contemporary villas swathed in white marble and wrap-around floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor terraces with private infinity pools and fireplaces, were designed by acclaimed architect John Heah to showcase the panoramic views of Kea’s dramatic landscapes.

Amenities: Spa, gym, restaurants, bars, pool, family rooms, kid’s programming

Editor’s tip: Don’t miss a sommelier-led wine tasting at Èpicora wine bar, where you can taste a wide selection of Greek wines paired with artisanal cheeses and local charcuterie.

Address: Kea Island, 840 02, Greece

Odera Tinos (May 2024)

Photo: Courtesy of Odera Tinos

Modern luxury has finally made its way to the lesser-known Cycladic island of Tinos, with the inauguration of its first luxury hotel, Odera Tinos. Odera’s 77 modern rooms feature furnished terraces with cascading plunge pools blended so seamlessly into the cliffside above Vourni beach that they feel as though they’ve always been a part of the landscape. This was precisely the idea for Studio Bonarchi, the design team who honoured local craftsmanship using the island’s raw materials so as to not disrupt the authentic style of the island – a commitment reflected all throughout the hotel’s interiors, which used traditional Tinian stones and local marble furnishings. As Tinos is also a beloved foodie destination and a farmer’s island, the hotel’s various food and beverage offerings nod to the timeless Cycladic specialities of the island – even down by the beach bar, which will serve a selection of local finger foods and fresh crudos .

Amenities: Pool, bars, restaurants, private beach, spa, gym, private chapel, boutique, conference room, free on-site parking

Editor’s tip: The restaurant’s extensive selection of Tinian wines will provide an excellent introduction to wines from the island.

Address: Vourni beach, Tinos 842 00, Greece

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The best Greek islands to visit in 2024

By Rachel Howard and Condé Nast Traveller

Lord Byron was on to something when he waxed lyrical about the Greek islands. But with more than 200 inhabited to choose from, which ones are the very best Greek islands? Here regular isle-hopper Rachel Howard reveals the ones to get in a speedboat for in 2024, with where to stay recommendations chosen by the editors of Condé Nast Traveller .

Here, we've also ranked the best Greek islands, from 1-29. While we love and highly recommend every island on this list – and advocate visiting all of them throughout your lifetime, if you can – we've also edited the list in order so if it's your first time planning a visit to this magical corner of the world, or you just want to branch out from your usual summer isle trip, we can help you choose where to go next. The order below reflects our well-travelled team's personal opinions, the landscapes, food, beaches, hotels and more.

For more recommendations, see our round up of the best Greek Islands hotels .

Best for: A photogenic and dramatic coastline

Everyone knows the  Venus de Milo (which has stood in the Louvre since the 19th century). Until recently, very few had heard of  Milos , the volcanic island where Aphrodite’s graceful likeness was discovered. Those in the know jealously guard their treasured island, and especially its 70 (or more) beaches — surely the most diverse and dramatic coastline of all the Greek Islands.

Little by little, though, Milos is being discovered. Instagram is saturated with no-filter shots of the undulating white cliffs at Sarakiniko, the bottle-green swimming hole at Papafragas, and colourful, rickety syrmata, tiny boat houses wedged between rock and sea. (You’ll find the best photo opportunities at Klima and Mandrakia). This painterly landscape was shaped by the minerals that have long been a source of wealth – obsidian, alum, barite and sulphur, which still bubbles up in the island’s many hot springs. As the 11,000-year-old mining industry is gradually giving way to tourism, several chic hotels have made an appearance. Go now, before the trickle of visitors turns into a tide.

Where to stay on Milos:

• For romance: Milos Cove or Domes White Coast Milos
• For families: Captain Zeppos
• For an eco-retreat: Skinopi Lodge
• For an authentic stay: Achinos By The Sea

Best for: A long weekend with the art crowd

You know when Dakis Joannou, Greece's foremost art collector, is on Hydra. His yacht,  Guilty , is painted in gaudy 'camouflage' by Jeff Koons. Every summer, Joannou invites big hitters such as Matthew Barney and David Shrigley to create site-specific installations in the Greek island's old slaughterhouse. Even the school is commandeered for exhibitions in the summer holidays. Car-free and protected by a preservation order, Hydra has always been the artists' muse of the Greek Islands. Leonard Cohen set the scene in the 60s; now Brice Marden, Sadie Coles and Juergen Teller have homes here. Athenian artists take up residence at the School of Fine Arts, one of the vast, grey, stone mansions overlooking the horseshoe harbour. Musicians of all stripes rehearse and record at the  Old Carpet Factory , an 18th-century residence whose double-height ceilings and underground cistern have incredible acoustics.

Less than two hours from Athens , Hydra fills up with chic Greeks at weekends. They come to disconnect and slow down, but also to see and be seen. Wily cats and weary donkeys patrol the back alleys, but all the action happens along the waterfront. Oh look! There's Olivia Palermo at The Pirate Bar and Chloë Sevigny shaking her tail feather at Hydronetta beach bar. Who cares if there are barely any beaches? You can always find a slab of sun-baked rock from which to leap rock from which to dive into the clearest water in the world. See our full guide to  Hydra, Greece .

Where to stay in Hydra:

• For a boutique stay: Orloff Boutique Hotel
• For a beachfront stay: Onos Residence
• For a group: Mirkella sleeps 12 people

Best for: Big, fat Greek feasts

Sifnos owes its foodie reputation to its most famous descendant, Nicholas Tselementes, who wrote the first Greek cookbook in 1910. Forget souvlaki and moussaka: here, chickpea croquettes and stewed capers are taverna staples. The island is peppered with potteries that produce the earthenware casseroles used for revitháda (baked chickpeas) and mastelo (lamb with red wine and dill). Traditional dishes are slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven at To Meraki tou Manoli, a local institution on sheltered Vathy bay. (While you’re there, invest in some timeless tableware from Atsonios Ceramics, in business since 1870.) In postcard-pretty Artemonas, all roads lead to Theodorou, purveyors of nougat wafers and almond sweets since 1933. You can eat in your bikini at Omega3 , where locally foraged and fished ingredients are given an exotic twist: baby-calamari tempura, smoked eel in chilled melon soup with wasabi, and chickpea sorbet with wild apricot jam and pine nuts. In 2021, Omega3’s previous energetic head chef Giorgos Samoilis opened Cantina , an equally experimental restaurant in Seralia, a pretty little bay below the beautiful medieval village of Kastro. Lobsters are plucked straight from the sea at Heronissos, then served with spaghetti on the jetty. It's just the right balance of low-key luxury and unspoiled authenticity. Rather like Sifnos itself.

Where to stay in Sifnos:

• For romance:  NÓS
• For a boutique stay:  Verina Astra
• For families:  Verina Terra
• For a laidback stay: Sifnos House
• For something unique:  This windmill Airbnb

4. Santorini

Best for: Honeymooners and first-timers

Cooing American and Chinese honeymooners line up to take selfies as the sun sinks behind  Santorini 's caldera, the flooded volcanic crater. That view may be a romantic cliché, but it still takes your breath away. A volcanic explosion blew out Santorini's heart 3,500 years ago, leaving black-sand beaches, vertiginous cliffs in psychedelic hues, and swirling rumours about Atlantis in its wake. The eruption also preserved the ancient city of Akrotiri under layers of ash, and created fertile ground for exceptional Assyrtiko grapes and Vinsanto wines. (Sample them at Domaine Sigalas and Vassaltis wineries, paired with delicate dishes that let the grapes sing.)

Apart from a boat trip to the smouldering crater of Nea Kameni and hot springs at Palia Kameni, there's not much to do but gaze at the mesmerising views from your suite, dangling on the edge of the caldera. Most places to stay are concentrated in Oia and Imerovigli, but the inland village of Pyrgos is up-and-coming. Go for a twilight Bellini at Franco's Cafe and visit Emporio, with its smattering of old-school coffee shops and Airbnbs. For a glimpse of Santorini before the onslaught of cruise ships and Instagrammers, explore the quieter south (but keep your discoveries to yourself).

Where to stay in Santorini:

• For laidback luxury: Perivolas
• For glamour: Nobu Hotel
• For romance: Andronis Boutique Hotel
• For the wine: The Vasilicos
• For groups: Elilia Superior Villa sleeps 8 people
• For something unique: this cave house

For more recommendations, see our guide to the best hotels in Santorini and the  best Airbnbs in Santorini .

Best Greek island for: Culture and off-season cachet

On Syros, capital of the Cyclades, you won’t find sugar-cube villages and whitewashed lanes. The colourful 19th-century city of Ermoupoli is built on twin peaks – one Orthodox, the other Catholic, the heritage of a long Venetian occupation. There’s still a strong Italian flavour in Ermoupoli’s marble piazzas, princely mansions, and miniature replica of La Scala, the showpiece of a year-round cultural scene. Syros hosts festivals of animation, dance, digital art, film, classical music, jazz and rembetiko, the Greek blues popularised by local musician Markos Vamvakaris. A few rembetiko joints have survived in the upper town, Ano Syros.

Once Greece’s ship-building centre, Syros' industry centres around the yard in Neorio. But the most splendid legacy of the shipping industry are the manor houses in Vaporia and Poseidonia. The beaches are slightly less splendid — with the exception of Delfini, Varvarousa, and Aetos in the wild north. But fabulous seaside tavernas abound:  Iliovassilemar on Galissas beach for samphire and sea-urchin salad and rockfish soup;  Allou Yialou in the pretty seaside village of Kini for lobster with orzo. In Ermoupoli, the finest places to eat and drink are around Androu Street: Ousyra , where the chef plates up Greek-ified pasta and beautifully balanced salads, and  Django Gelato , where the pistachio gelato reigns supreme, and the fig sorbet made in August can sell out in less than half an hour. Perhaps the prettiest restaurant of all is  Mazi , a vine-covered courtyard festooned with bougainvillaea. Before you leave, stock up on loukoumi (rose-tinted Turkish delight) and San Michali cheese from  Prekas delicatessen , and visit Zeyelo for hand-made wooden sunglasses. For more recommendations, see our insider  guide to Syros .

Where to stay on Syros:

• For a boutique stay: Xenon Apollonos
• For glamour: Hotel Ploes
• For romance: Aristide Hotel
• For groups: Villa Syros sleeps 12 people

6. Folegandros

Best Greek island for: Authenticity with a bohemian buzz

The village square should be your first port of call on any Greek island: settle into your favourite café, pick up local gossip, and adjust to the languid pace of life. On Folegandros, this presents a challenge: the cliff-hanger capital, Hora, has not one but three squares, each brimming with a jumble of cafés, tavernas and dinky raki bars. We recommend  Pounta , where the Danish owner makes and sells the lopsided cups and bowls in which your coffee and Greek yogurt are served. From Hora, zigzagging steps lead up, up and away to the only real landmark, Panagia church; make the pilgrimage at sunrise (perhaps after an all-nighter at dimunitive Astarti bar).

Folegandros – which means ‘iron hard’ in ancient Greek – is as barren as its name suggests. Fruit trees are protected from fierce winds by rings of stones. You won’t find sandy beaches lined with sunbeds; only limpid, pebbly coves, such as Katergo, Ambeli and Livadaki. Set in the rocks above Agios Nikolaos bay, Papalagi serves big fat prawns and whole grilled octopus on a wooden deck aligned with the horizon. Water taxis service some beaches in high season; otherwise you’ll have to scramble down rocky footpaths to cool off. On your way home, stop at Mimis or Synantisi in Ano Meria for the island speciality of  matsata (goat or rabbit stew with hand-made pasta).

Where to stay on Folegandros:

• For views: Anemomilos
• For families: Anemi
• For beach access: Blue Sand hotel
• For a private stay: Maistros

Best for: Antiquities, active adventures and sunshine all year round

Greece's largest island, the birthplace of Zeus,  Crete has ancient ruins, snow-capped peaks and beaches galore. Sunshine is pretty much guaranteed year round, but spring is especially lovely for rambling and sightseeing. The Minoan palace of Knossos is glorious, despite the steady stream of coach parties (go early: it opens at 8am); but there are stunning ancient sites, such as Aptera and Malia, peppered all over the island. The 16km-long Samaria Gorge also teems with pilgrims, but there are hundreds more canyons to explore, often with only the elusive kri-kri (wild goats) for company. One of the most staggeringly beautiful hikes is through the Aradena Gorge in the wild and rugged Sfakia region, ending at Marmara, a translucent cove on the Libyan Sea, for a cooling dip and lunch at one of Crete’s finest tavernas, Dialiskari.

With the exception of Elounda – a pocket of bling popular with oligarchs – the north-east coast is scarred by over-development. Head west to the Amari valley or Apokoronas for authentic villages surrounded by olive and orange groves. Or go south, where you'll find the  best beaches in Crete – try Ligres, Sougia, or Kedrodasos. Alternatively, take a back-to-nature break at Milia Mountain Retreat, a 16th-century hamlet powered entirely by solar energy. Everything on the mostly organic menu is grown, caught or reared locally. In fact, it’s almost impossible not to eat well on Crete, which produces superb cheese, honey and olive oil, as well as delicious goat, rabbit and smoked-pork dishes. Time slows almost to a standstill in the mountain villages, where locals with formidable whiskers welcome you with shots of raki (Cretan grappa) for breakfast and celebrate saints' days with a volley of gunshots. Even the road signs are peppered with bullet holes.

Where to stay in Crete:

• For families: The Royal Senses Resort & Spa and Cretan Malia Park
• For romance: Acro Wellness Suites
• For a great location: Blue Palace Resort & Spa
• For a village stay: Kapsaliana Village
• For a private stay: Azure Awe
• For a group: Cien sleeps 16 people

For more, see our edit of the  best hotels in Crete .

Best of the Greek islands for: character and lush landscapes

Corfu is the It Girl of the Ionian islands. The cosmopolitan capital is a charming clash of Venetian, British and French colonial influences. Evenings kick off with cocktails on the Liston (a colonnade modelled on Paris's Rue de Rivoli), followed by dinner at  Salto , an unpretentious wine bar and bistro on the edge of the Old Town.

With its pastel villages, rolling olive groves and grand manor houses, the rest of the island recalls  Tuscany – but with some of the  best beaches in Europe . The smart set stay on Corfu's north-east coast (nicknamed Kensington-on-Sea) where the Rothschilds like to unwind. It's wall-to-wall Sloanes and speedboats at Agni, a tiny fishing village with three rival tavernas (Toula's is the best). From here, you can rent a boat and putter to your own cove: perhaps Nissaki, Agios Stefanos or Kerasia. These idyllic bays still resemble the 'delectable landscape' that  Lawrence Durrell fell for in the 1930s – now back in vogue thanks to the ITV series, The Durrells . Or venture inland to  Ambelonas , an enchanting winery, restaurant and cooking school that specialises in unusual local dishes, such as roast pork with quince and crème brûlée with Corfiot kumquats. Steer clear of the south, especially Kavos – unless you happen to like wet T-shirt contests.

Where to stay in Corfu:

• For a standout spa: Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
• For all-inclusive: Ikos Dassia
• For romance: Domes Miramare
• For families: Domes of Corfu
• For groups: Emerald Oasis sleeps 10 people

For more, see our pick of the  best hotels in Corfu .

Gina Jackson

Connor Sturges

Arati Menon

Lucrezia Worthington

Best for: Endless sandy beaches

Naxiots once made considerable fortunes exporting potatoes, cheese, marble and emery. Locals bequeathed undesirable seaside plots – useless for farming – to their laziest offspring. When tourists cottoned on to the island's scores of fabulous beaches, these wastrels found themselves sitting on gold mines. The west coast of Naxos is fringed with mile upon mile of powdery sands. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna delight toddlers and teenagers alike with their shallow waters and beach bars. As you head south, the beaches get wilder: Plaka, where you can gallop across the dunes on horseback, Mikri Vigla for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and crystal-clear Kastraki.

Should you tire of frolicking on the shore, three supersized kouros statues are hidden in the hills and there are dozens of drowsy villages to explore. Try kitron, the local citron liqueur, at the Vallindras distillery in Halki or sample homemade wine and arseniko cheese under the plane trees in Ano Potamia village. No wonder Herodotus described Naxos as “the happiest of islands."

Where to stay in Naxos:

• For romance:  Naxian on the Beach
• For laidback luxury:  Kavos
• For a private stay:  Eye of Naxos Sky
• For families: Hidden Hill

10. Cephalonia / Kefalonia

Best Greek island for: Laidback family holidays

Casting Penélope Cruz as a Greek peasant is improbable. Shooting a World War II film on an island flattened by an earthquake in 1953 sounds even crazier. And yet  Captain Corelli's Mandolin put under-the-radar Kefalonia (Cephalonia) in the spotlight in 2001. The dramatic scenery still lives up to the hype: milky-white Myrtos beach, the island's pin-up; pine-fringed Horgota beach; and the giddying heights of Mount Ainos, a national park where wild horses roam. Outdoor Kefalonia organises four-wheel-drive safaris, if you can't face the hairpin bends. Surprisingly, the two prettiest seaside villages – Assos and Fiskardo – didn't make the cut. But the yachting set has discovered their photogenic charm. Everyone from John Galliano to Jon Bon Jovi has jumped ashore to taste the seafood pasta at  Tassia Restaurant in Fiskardo, washed down with local Robola and Muscat wines. (We recommend the organic muscat from the 19th century  Haritatos Vineyard in Lixouri, also an enchanting setting for wine tasting.) The rocky coastline around Fiskardo is deliciously pristine: go snorkelling at tiny Dafnoudi or Emblisi, flanked by slabs of limestone that turn the water electric blue.

Where to stay in Kefalonia:

• For an adult-only retreat:  F Zeen
• For families:  Emelisse Nature Resort
• For groups:  Odyssea sleeps 12 people
• For a private stay:  Wilderness Whisperings house
• For something unique:  This sky high villa

See our guide to the best hotels on Kefalonia for more.

Best Greek island for: Walking trails and wild beaches

Divided by four mountain ranges, Andros is like several islands in one. Lush valleys, rushing streams, handsome villages, and wild, windswept beaches are connected by a well-maintained network of hiking trails, making this an excellent off-season destination. Many of Greece’s powerful shipping dynasties hail from Andros; they have bequeathed the island with grand estates, splendid museums, and an elegant neoclassical capital. The marble-paved streets of Chora are full of unexpected treasures: a tiny, open-air cinema showing black-and-white classics, great pizzas and cocktails in a  converted slaughterhouse , sublime sundresses and sandals at  Waikiki boutique. Inland, there are fortified monasteries, ice-cold waterfalls, and fantastic farm-to-table tavernas like Kosses in Ano Fellos, Fofo’s in Livadia, and Tou Josef in Pitrofos to explore. And then there are the mind-blowing beaches: from the spectacular sandy bays of Zorkos, Vitali, and Vori on the north coast to the mellow beach bars at Apothikes and Chryssi Ammos, or the sunset views and old-school fish taverna at Agia Marina, there are options for whichever way the wind or your mood is blowing. You could spend weeks on Andros and still have more to discover.

Where to stay on Andros:

• For a guesthouse stay: Melisses
• For privacy: Onar
• For a village stay: Touchstone House
• For groups: Five Star Greece

12. Serifos

Best Greek island for: Naturists and purists

The sleeper hit of the Cyclades, Serifos is the summer retreat of interior designers and architects who prefer to keep the sandy beaches to themselves. (One French home-owner is so protective of her hideaway that she tells all her friends she summers on nearby Sifnos.) Even in  August , you’ll find coves where you can skinny dip in blissful solitude. That’s because the best beaches (such as Kalo Ambeli and Skala) are only accessible via bone-rattling dirt roads or donkey tracks. Better still, rent a motor boat from the laidback harbour, Livada. Make sure to moor outside Anna’s taverna on Sikamia beach for freshly caught fish and garden-grown salads.

In the cascading hilltop Hora, there’s barely any nightlife, no smart boutiques or fancy hotels. But who cares when you can kick back with fennel pie and raki at  Stou Stratou , pick up Natassa Kalogeropoulou’s minimalist ceramics at  Kerameio , and listen to Greek folk in the open-air amphitheatre? And all less than three hours from Athens.

Where to stay on Serifos:

• For a boutique stay: Verina Astra
• For romance: Chill & Co.
• For groups: Lenia sleeps 12 people
• For something unique: This 19th century captain’s house

13. Mykonos

Best of the Greek islands for: Decadent parties and five-star hotels

Mykonos had LGBTQ+ clubs and sunrise parties long before rave culture was even invented. Its bohemian allure hasn’t faded since the 1960s, although the once naked beaches now have nail bars, personal trainers and house music pumping out all hours. The influx of supermodels and superyachts has inspired hot new hotels and restaurants. The hippest place to show off your abs is  Scorpios , a louche beach bar that puts Ibiza 's finest in the shade (book a cabana to watch the sunset). After hours, it's always Astra, where you might find Keith Richards chatting up Karolina Kurkova. The LGBTQ+ crowd has dwindled, but drag queens and oiled bodybuilders make a splash at Jackie O' , overlooking Super Paradise beach.

If the glitzy excess gets too much, escape to Fokos taverna for superfood salads and lamb chops, or Kiki's, an off-grid grill-shack overlooking Agios Sostis bay, where even Naomi Campbell has to queue for a table. Or cruise over to the tiny island of Delos, an archaeological sanctuary that once thronged with 30,000 sun worshippers (the temple is dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of light).

Where to stay in Mykonos:

• For romance: Cali Mykonos
• For the party scene: Soho Roc House
• For a laidback stay: Once in Mykonos
• For families: Santa Marina resort
• For groups: Bluewave XL sleeps 36 people

For more recommendations, see our guide to the  best hotels in Mykonos .

14. Zakynthos / Zante

The best Greek Island for: seaside holidays with toddlers or teens

Zakynthos, or Zante, has shrugged off its reputation as a destination for lads on tour (as long as you avoid Lagana and the built-up south coast) by rebranding itself as one of Greece's greenest islands. It's not just the emerald hills sliding into the electric blue Ionian: much of the south coast is a nature reserve where endangered loggerhead turtles hatch in the sand. The turtle beaches are off limits, but there are countless coves in every hue of green and blue. Favourites are tiny Xigia, with its bubbling underwater springs, and craggy Porto Limnionas, with sunbeds wedged between the rocks and palm-frond umbrellas positioned between the pine trees. Skinari is the starting point for boat trips to the most famous landmarks, the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach, where a rusting liner leans into the chalky cliffs. From Keri, you can cast away for Marathonisi island, another turtle sanctuary.

The mountainous interior, all sleepy stone villages poking out of pine forests, is great for hikes and bikes. ( Eco Zante can arrange outdoor activities guided by insiders.)  Askos Stone Park is a wildlife sanctuary inhabited by deer, chinchilla, and dozens of other species. After exploring the Venetian castle high above the harbour, treat the kids to thin-crust pizzas (with grown-up toppings like bresaola, aubergine, and gorgonzola) at  Alesta on cute St Mark's Square.

Where to stay in Zante:

• For families: Porto Zante
• For romance: Zante Maris Suites and Olea All Suite Hotel
• For a private stay: Halcyon Seas
• For a group: Ble Kyma sleeps 12 people

15. Amorgos

Best for : Deep-blue seas and wide-open spaces

It’s not easy to get to Amorgos. In high winds, the fast ferries stay grounded and the slow boat takes upwards of eight hours from  Athens . When you disembark at Katapola, a sleepy harbour lined with great little fish tavernas (our favourites are Prekas and Mouragio), a sign announces: 'Welcome to Amorgos. Nobody will find you here.'

That’s just the point. This craggy Cycladic island has always attracted loners, hikers, divers and pilgrims, who shuffle up the cliff face to the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, a sliver of white dangling 300 metres above the sea. The water here is a million shades of blue and so startlingly clear you can see every sea urchin lurking on the rocky shore. Even the sage-scented hiking trails are called Blue Paths, because the sea and sky are visible in all directions.

With a population of under 2,000, the locals are outnumbered by shaggy goats that blend in perfectly with the burnished landscape and hippie vibe. But you don't have to be a recluse to fall for Amorgos. There are plenty of all-day spots and a few late-night bars where Amorgos groupies meet, summer after summer: Jazzmin, in Hora, for backgammon and cocktails; Pergalidi in Langada for herbal infusions and jazzy tunes; Seladi in Tholaria, with giddying views and a telescope for stargazing.

Where to stay on Amorgos: There are very few hotels on Amorgos, beyond basic rooms to let.  Vorina Ktismata is the exception, with seven smart apartments looking out across Hora’s white-washed rooftops.

Best for: The perfect balance of seclusion and sophistication

One of the tiniest Ionian islands, Paxos packs a big punch. Not for its five-star hotels (there are hardly any) or its sandy beaches (practically none), but for its electric blue sea and three dinky harbour towns, each one so pretty it’s impossible to pick a favourite. In laid-back Loggos, on the northeast coast, star-spangled evenings are spent on the waterfront terrace of Taxidi bar, where the owner, Spiros, often jams with local musicians. You could while away days in the waterfront cafés of Lakka, watching lissom sailors hop on and off their  yachts . Protected from the wind but with a lively social scene, the main port of Gaios is characterised by Venetian architecture and a high quota of stylish Italians, who own pale stone villas hidden in the wooded interior or on the crest of the limestone cliffs along the western shoreline. For the many British Paxos aficionados, all roads lead to  Ben’s Bar , a happy-go-lucky hangout on Monodendri beach, where you can laze under the olive trees with French toast and Piña Coladas. Make sure to rent a motor boat to putter along the coast to pebble coves such as Marmari and Kipiadi, or across to Antipaxos, an even smaller island that’s a hit with the yachting set. Paths through vineyards and orchards trickle down to bays with sea so clear it looks retouched.

Where to Stay in Paxos:

• For an authentic stay: Paxos Villa
• For a great location: Oneiro
• For groups: Panayia View sleeps 14 people

17. Lefkada

Best for: Sailors, surfers, and superstar beaches

Lefkada is something of an anomaly. Unlike the other Ionian islands, it’s accessible from the mainland via a causeway on the northern tip. It’s also easily reached from the  UK , with direct flights to Preveza, a 40-minute drive. Lefkada’s main town, flattened by an earthquake in the 1950s, certainly won’t take your breath away, but those famous cliff-backed beaches, Egremni and Porto Katsiki, sure will. You’ll find sheltered beaches no matter which way the wind is blowing; but if you’re here for the swell, the south coast is fantastic for windsurfing (head to Vassiliki or Sivota, home to the world windsurfing championships) and Agios Ioannis bay billows with kite-surfers. At Nidri, ignore the unlovely bars and watersports centres, and hop on a boat to explore the little isles nearby. You can  swim through sea caves near Kalamos; eat seared tuna with tarama at Errikos taverna on Meganisi, a favourite of reclusive billionaires; and watch the sunset with a basil-infused Mastiha and tonic at Mylos bar, a converted windmill on Kastos.

Want to cool down or escape the summer crowds? Drive through forests of chestnut and pine into Lefkada’s mountainous interior to the somnolent villages of Karya (home to an enchanting textile museum), Eglouvi (to play backgammon under plane trees) and Exanthia (to watch the setting sun from up in the clouds at Rachi restaurant). You might even see paragliders leaping off the mountain.

Where to Stay in Lefkada:

• For romance: Ibid
• For views:  New Morning villa

Best Greek island for: A mythical retreat for lovers and loners

Despite its legendary stature, the homeland of Homer's hero, Odysseus, remains surprisingly under the radar. Ithaca’s turquoise and emerald coves are popular with the sailing set, but few visitors venture into the forested hills. So you might be the only person exploring the eighth-century BC ruins of Odysseus’ palace, or making the heady trek to the church of Anogi, covered in Byzantine frescoes (ask for the key at the village coffee shop, where the owner will cook you a set menu of whatever is available – maybe a tomato salad, some local cheese and braised goat – straight from her garden or neighbours’ fields).

From Anogi, it’s an exhilarating two-hire hike down to Kioni, a miniature port where you’ll find  Spavento , the perfect pier-side café-bar. Go any time of day or night for ice-cream sundaes, excellent cocktails, and a soundtrack to make your heart sing. The waterside tavernas at the drowsy fishing port of Frikes are unfailingly delightful, especially  Ageri . The deep, sheltered harbour town of Vathy is barely livelier, but the mood can be deliciously mischievous at Mylos bar. Beaches are mostly small and pebbly, but the sea is as clear and refreshing as gin. Authentic, unspoiled and infuriatingly (or gratifyingly) hard to reach, rugged little Ithaca is somewhere you can still disappear.

Where to stay on Ithaca:

• For a private stay: Ithaca Airbnb house
• For families:  Levendis Estate

Best for: Traditional villages and knockout tavernas

Tinos has more than 50 villages, each vying to be fairest of them all. In Pyrgos, famous for its marble craftsmen, sculpted birds and flowers decorate every doorway. In Volax, basket weavers squat outside cottages surrounded by giant boulders, seemingly flung from the heavens by Zeus in a fit of pique. There's even a village called 'love’, Agapi, where you can tuck into wild-fennel fritters at the only taverna. Tinos takes its food culture seriously: there are artichoke, caper and honey festivals.  Marathia launched the island’s farm- (or fishing-boat-) to-table scene, elevating local ingredients into complex modern dishes. For a perfect meal in perfect surroundings, go for cuttlefish risotto and octopus caramelised in grape must at Thalassaki, served on the jetty in Isternia bay, then watch dusk bleed into the horizon from Exomeria bar.

Tinos is only 20 minutes from Mykonos, so it's a wonder it isn't overrun with tourists. The harbour is swarmed on 15 August, however, when Orthodox pilgrims flock here to kiss the Virgin Mary at the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria, one of the holiest sites in Greece. Otherwise, the island is miraculously untouched. Solitary chapels and whimsical dovecotes stud thyme-scented hills, dropping to sandy bays whipped by the meltemi wind. There's a nascent surfer scene on Kolibithra bay, where a VW camper van has been converted into a cute beach bar.

Where to stay in Tinos:

• For a guest house stay: Xinara House
• For a private stay:  The Detailor  

Best for: Stark mystique and show-stopping villas

Patmos has an indefinable je ne sais quoi – an otherworldly quality that radiates from its crowning glory, the medieval Monastery of St John. This turreted fortress, bursting with Byzantine relics, is named after John the Divine, who conjured up his apocalyptic revelations in a cave nearby. Pure-white Hora, a World Heritage Site, is where A-listers and fashion editors stay. High walls and heavy doors conceal magnificent mansions dating back to the 16th century. The almighty church has kept nightlife in check. If you must see and be seen, head to quietly glamorous Astivi or Stoa Theo's bar, on miniature Agia Lesbia, in Hora. Beach life is generally languid and low-key; Psili Ammos and Livadi Geranou are our favourite hideouts. Dinner reservations are essential at Benetos, for Med-Asian fusion on an organic farm, and Lambi for grilled fish on a purple pebble beach.

Joining the Patmos in-crowd requires commitment. There's no airport and it's a nine-hour ferry journey from Athens, which keeps the hoi polloi at bay. Seriously reclusive types hop on a fishing boat from Patmos to Marathi and play castaway at Pantelis, a divine taverna with modest rooms to let. Read our full guide to  Patmos , the spiritual Greek island.

Where to stay in Patmos:

• For a guest house stay: Pagostas
• For a private stay: Patmos 360
• For a village stay: Eirini

Best for: Travelling back in time

When the writer Lawrence Durrell arrived in Rhodes after World War II, he found an island devastated by centuries of crusaders and invaders. Like the fallen Colossus, it was 'a Rhodes dispersed into a million fragments, waiting to be built up again.' Since then, Rhodes has reinvented itself as one of Greece's top travel destinations. The big draw is the medieval citadel in Rhodes Old Town: stroll along the battlements and you'll spy Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, synagogues and minarets. In the maze of alleys, seek out Marco Polo Mansion, a 15th-century guest-house decorated like a pasha's harem, with an enchanting restaurant in the garden.

Upmarket hotels are clustered around Lindos, its magnificent acropolis surrounded by slate cliffs and emerald coves. Go for the views – and the sublime octopus ragout at Mavrikos restaurant.

As you head south, high-rise resorts give way to stretches of golden sand, such as Glystra, Tsambika, and Fourni. Inland, you'll find alpine forests (Mount Attavyros), hilltop castles (Monolithos), faded frescoes (Saint Nikolaos Fountoukli) and ancient ruins (Kamiros). Marooned on the southern tip, Prasonisi is a powdery peninsula where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. One side is calm, the other choppy – a metaphor for this island of two halves.

Where to stay in Rhodes:  

• For romance: Casa Cook
• For history: Kókkini Porta Rossa
• For a boutique stay:  Melenos Art Boutique Hotel

Best for: Castaway coves and a picture-perfect port

Little Symi has the prettiest port in Greece. As you round the headland, neoclassical mansions in every shade of apricot and peach rise like a mirage from the sea. Built by 19th-century sponge and spice merchants, the whole town is now a national monument. You need strong legs to explore – it's about 500 steps up to the crumbling acropolis – but you won't need a car. The only proper road peters out at Panormitis monastery, a major pilgrimage site. Ravishing beaches such as Agios Giorgos Dysalona (backed by monumental cliffs) and Marathounda (where goats will try to filch your picnic) are only accessible by boat or on foot. In the rugged hinterland, more than 100 monasteries are hidden among the pine and cypress forests.

With its laid-back glamour, luminous sea and almost tropical microclimate, Symi is a hit with French and Italian yachties. You'll find them eating flash-fried baby shrimp, a local specialty, at Tholos, a sensational taverna where the harbour views almost steal the show.

Where to stay in Symi:

• For a hotel stay: The Old Markets
• For a private stay: On The Rocks

23. Astypalea

Best for: Escaping the crowds

A throwback to a gentler, slower, more elemental way of life, Astypalea is surprisingly easy to get to (daily one-hour flights from Athens). Every gap in the burnished hills frames a different view of Hora, cascading from the Venetian castle to seaside Skala. The scent of saffron biscuits wafts through the whitewashed lanes. Tucked beneath the battlements, Castro bar has a magical terrace that seems to float above the archipelago.

The nearest beach is Livadi, a sort-of-resort surrounded by citrus orchards. The rest of the island is stark and wild. Treacherous tracks hurtle down to shingle bays such as Vatses, with a rocking beach bar, and Kaminakia, where Linda's farm-to-table taverna serves the best roast goat in the Dodecanese. If you really want to be alone, rent a motorboat from Maltezana, an old-time fishing village, and putter to Koutsomiti and Kounoupes, tiny islands connected by a double-sided beach. At Vathy, a lagoon where erotic graffiti was etched into the rocks 2,500 years ago, the only taverna is called Galini (Peace). Which sums up Astypalea perfectly.

Where to stay in Astypalea: Saluti da Stampalia Suites , with seven subdued but very stylish sea-view rooms, has upped the ante on an island where most accommodation is uninspired.

24. Skiathos

Best Greek island for: Flopping onto a sandy beach with a good book

Skiathos may be the smallest of the Sporades islands, which counts among its number sleepy Alonissos and the pretty  Mamma Mia! location of Skopelos, but it’s by far the most popular, especially with families, who come for the baby powder-soft sandy  beaches and laid-back vibe. The island has some of the finest beaches in Greece, with the tree-lined, turquoise-watered Koukounaries in the south the most celebrated and the busiest (forget about getting a sun lounger here in peak season). Those in the north of the island, which can only be accessed by a steep, winding drive through pine groves, are more rugged and windswept but no less idyllic – emerging onto Elia beach on the west coast, with its crystal-clear sea and rickety wooden taverna, is like stepping into a little slice of paradise.

As dusk falls the town starts to liven up, with most of the action centred around Papadiamantis Street, the main shopping drag. Stroll down it on the way to dinner and browse smart boutiques selling handcrafted jewellery and knick-knacks, or pick up local delicacies from the upmarket Ergon deli (reopens in May), which also has outposts in  Athens , Thessaloniki and Mayfair. The buzziest restaurants are clustered around the harbour, with Bourtzi, perched atop a tiny rocky island, the best spot for sundowner  cocktails and The Windmill a favourite for elegant suppers. For the most charming setting, head to Sklithri and book one of the taverna’s tables right on the beach. Order an ice-cold Mythos beer, baked feta and a platter of perfectly-chargrilled and out-of-this-world delicious vegetables then watch the sun set over the Aegean, with your toes in the sand.

Where to stay in Skiathos:

• For a hotels stay: Elivi Skiathos
• For a private stay: Villa Azalea

Best for:  Low-key authenticity all year round

Unusually for Greece, Aegina is truly an island for all seasons. Only about an hour’s ferry ride from Piraeus, the unpretentious port (briefly the first capital of modern Greece) has a lived-in charm. Athenian weekenders come for the excellent seaside ouzeris; Skotadis, on the harbourfront is the standout. Classicists come to explore the portside antiquities of Kolona, the hilltop temple of Aphaia (allegedly the template for the Parthenon) and the ghostly Byzantine chapels at Paleochora. Canny ex-pats have snapped up properties in Pachia Rachi, a stone village with sensational views across the straits to the Peloponnese. The Dumas family, heirs to the Hermès fortune, have been discreetly spending their summers here for decades. With its soft light and gentle landscapes, Aegina has always been a muse for Greek artists and writers, including the prolific painter Nikos Nikolaou, whose former home and atelier is now an  enchanting guesthouse and museum (open on Saturdays by appointment). Thanks to a tight-knit community of locals, Athenian escapees, and cosmopolitan emigrés, there’s always something interesting afoot: live music at Proka bar or  Il Posto , a cosy Italian restaurant in Kypseli village, an exhibition in the 17th century Markellos Tower, or a travel writing and ceramics retreat at  Oikia Karapanou , one of many stately homes in various states of ruin and repair that dot this incredibly diverse island. The only thing Aegina doesn’t have is great beaches — perhaps that’s what has spared this accessible island from over-development. This is an island that doesn’t depend on foreign tourists and is all the better for it.

Where to stay on Aegina:

• For a hotel stay: Nikolaou Residence
• For something unique: this bohemian artist's house
• For a group: Villa Calypso sleeps 11 people

26. Kastellorizo

Best of the Greek islands for:  Castaway dreams and swimming through caves

Michael Anastassiades, Lynda Benglis, Savvas Laz, Silvia and Nicoletta Fiorucci… the number of artists, designers and their patrons who summer on tiny Kastellorizo is remarkable. Covering less than 5 square miles, with fewer than 500 inhabitants, this sun-blistered fleck lies just over one nautical mile from Turkey’s Anatolian coast. You can sail across to the town of Kaş for kofte and a trawl though the flea market and be back in time for a sundowner at Faros, a day-to-night hangout in the old lighthouse beside the mosque. A confluence of Levantine influences draws a culturally curious crowd to this remote Aegean outpost. Once a thriving maritime economy, Kastellorizo was bombed during World War II and then virtually abandoned. Gradually, the handsome sponge and spice merchants’ houses in vibrant shades of turquoise and terracotta are being revived as artists’ residences (such as Fiorucci’s 4Rooms), or enchanting guesthouses like  Mediterraneo . You can dive straight from Mediterraneo’s sundeck into the port, where sea turtles bob alongside colourful fishing boats. There’s not much action beyond the waterfront strip known as the  kordoni , or shoelace: a little snorkelling, cave swimming, or boat-watching, a ramble along goat tracks, a slow supper of stuffed onions under the fairy-lit plane trees at Ta Platania, or perhaps some yoga in the wild on the even tinier islet of Ro. This is a pure and simple Greece.

Where to stay on Kastellorizo:

• For a boutique stay:  Casa Mediterraneo
• For romance:  Mediterraneo
• For groups:  The Admiral’s House

27. Antiparos

Best for:  Relaxed cool

This tiny island packs a surprisingly hip scene into its low-slung hills and shallow coves. Most of the action centres around the dinky port, where life drifts by in the waterfront cafés and the lively strip that leads to the square. Every season, more upmarket restaurants ( Yam ,  Lollo’s ) and boutiques ( More than This ,  Zali ) spring up alongside classic dive bars like  Doors and Lucky Luke. At dusk, all roads predictably lead to  Sunset bar for a spritz; after hours, everyone stumbles to cult disco La Luna, where both the décor and music are stuck in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

By day, the scene is way more mellow: brunch at  Margarita’s in town or  Time Marine  on Psaralyki, one of a string of shallow, narrow beaches along the southern coastline. Beyond the modest, boxy houses of the harbour town are dozens of sensational villas designed by in-demand architects. The fanciest properties are scattered around Soros and Agios Georgios bays, where you’ll also find two of the island’s best tavernas,  Peramataki and  Captain Pipinos . The latter is a short boat or kayak ride from Despotiko island, where goats roam around the semi-excavated sanctuary of Apollo. The beauty of Antiparos is that nothing is more than ten minutes away, and after a couple of days, you’ll feel like a regular, bumping into the same good-looking faces wherever you go. If you get cabin fever, you can hop on the 7-minute ferry to Paros for kite surfing, windsurfing, fine dining, or village hopping.

Where to stay on Antiparos:  

• For a hotel stay: The Rooster
• For a private stay: Antiparos Escape Villas  and Oliaros

Best of the Greek islands for:  Distinctive architecture and good vibes

Long overlooked because of its chequered history – this Dodecanese Island was an Italian naval base from 1912-1943, and later became the site of a notorious insane asylum — Leros is all the better for flying under the radar. The vast natural harbour of Lakki (an excellent marina for sailboats) still bears the surreal hallmarks of Fascist rationalism, an Art Deco mirage that’s like a faded version of Miami on the Med. The colourful neoclassical houses of Agia Marina and Platanos have a more lived-in feel, peppered with appealing patisseries, antique shops, and B&Bs. Italian cognoscenti and Turkish yachties have discovered Leros for one very good reason:  Mylos by the Sea , arguably the best seafood restaurant in Greece, with a hopelessly romantic setting overlooking a windmill jutting out to sea. Sunset watchers converge on  Harris Bar , another windmill poised between the medieval castle of Panagia and Panteli’s pebbly beach. Most beaches on Leros may be small and scrappy, but the water is luminous and there are just enough low-key beach bars like  Zephyros  and  Lime . Since restaurants cater mainly to Greeks, the food scene is authentic and affordable: Thea Artemis taverna on gentle Blefouti bay, Lychnari in Lakki, and the cult souvlaki joint Yparxo in Platanos are local favourites. Although there’s a tiny domestic airport, there are no international flights or big, branded resorts on Leros. Instead, there are family-run guesthouses brimming with character, where you feel more like a friend than a room number.

Where to stay on Leros:

• For glamour:  Villa Clara
• For (vegan) romance:  Archondiko Angelou
• For a private stay:  Lakki Old Farmhouse

29. Spetses

Best of the Greek islands for:   Family holidays with the smart society set

If it weren’t for Sotirios Anargyros, Spetses might be as barren as its more bohemian neighbour, Hydra. In the early 20th century, after making a killing in tobacco, Anargyros bought up huge swathes of the island and planted thousands of pine trees. Anargyos also founded the famous boarding school (whose grounds are a lovely spot for an evening stroll) that inspired a certain English teacher to write ‘The Magus’, and built the Poseidonion, a grand harbourfront hotel that has been gloriously restored (there’s no finer place for an aperitivo). From the heirloom-filled mansions built on shipping fortunes to the horse-drawn carriages and tasteful yachts, the whole place reeks of old money. But there’s plenty of new-fangled fun too: late-night bars ( Bikini  or retro-cool  Bar Spetsa ), two open-air cinemas, stylish boutiques ( The Closet , whose resident cats are an attraction) and expensive restaurants ( Patralis  and  Tarsanas  vie for the best fish soup). In the summer, Spetses is a sociable place to see and be seen. But it’s also lovely off-season, when you can hike the gentle green hills or cycle the coastal road that circles the island (there’s even a Tweed Run in October). Compact, well-kept, and easily accessible from Athens (2-3 hours by catamaran), Spetses is a people-pleaser for all ages and seasons.

Where to stay on Spetses:

• For glamour:  Poseidonion Grand Hotel
• For families:  Orloff Resort
• For a private stay:  Magus House

15 of the Best Towns and Cities to Visit in Greece

From historic hillside cities to island destinations, these are 15 of the best towns and cities to visit in Greece.

More than 27 million travelers made their way to Greece in 2022 , visiting the country's gorgeous islands and coastlines, rural towns, and historic capital city of Athens. One look at its landscapes and it's easy to see why travelers dream of visiting Greece — but there's so much more to this Mediterranean nation. 

"Everyone knows that Greece boasts stunning crystalline waters that make you want to dive right in and historical sites that whisper tales of the past. Its culinary delights are a perfect way to wrap up a day of exploring its unique cultural riches and vibrant art scene, but what truly sets Greece apart is its people," Christos Stergiou , a travel advisor with True Trips, shared with Travel + Leisure . "Greeks have this incredible gift called philoxenia: hospitality taken to a whole new level. Our True Trips guests always describe the feeling of having new local friends who'll go above and beyond to make their journey unforgettable." 

Ready to plan your getaway? Here are 15 of the best cities to visit in Greece.

Yes, a visit to Athens feels obvious, because not only is it the capital city, but it’s also home to the international airport you’ll likely fly into on your visit. That said, Athens is well worth a trip in its own right, as it’s home to some of the most important historical sites on Earth, including the must-see Acropolis. Need more? Here’s how to spend one perfect day in Athens .

Related: The Best Times to Visit Greece

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, located in the northern part of the country, offers a blend of history and youthful energy that few cities can match. “I would recommend Thessaloniki for its long and epic history,” Peter Sommer, founder of Peter Sommer Travels , shared. “The historic center of Thessaloniki is filled with an extraordinary series of ancient monuments, many of them part of an imperial palace complex built by the Roman Emperor Galerius and vast in scope."

Sommer added that there are several museums to visit here, including the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. “But history and archaeology aren’t the only reasons to come to Thessaloniki. It’s justly famed for its gastronomy,” Sommer added. “You can savor a huge selection of glorious local dishes and sample a cornucopia of excellent local wines.”

Drive two hours east of Thessaloniki to find another northern city worth exploring — Kastoria. The scenic city sits perched on Lake Orestiada between the Grammos and Vitsi mountains. Visitors can enjoy peaceful boat rides on the lake with any number of outfitters lining the shores, or just watch the local fisherman go to work each day to reel in the catch. Or, book a tour with Adventures With Wine to bike the lake’s shoreline and see all the hidden nooks worth exploring. 

“Ioannina truly shines as a city that's a hidden treasure, especially for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers,” Stergiou shared of the city that sits on Lake Pamvotida. It’s a spot that has inspired many creative talents thanks to its epic vistas, but more than that, Stergiou explained, it’s a fantastic home base for exploring more of the northwest region of Greece. 

“In addition to the beautiful lake that stands proud as the city’s landmark, the Byzantine castle, the scenic historical center, and the lively neighborhoods, Ioannina is a gateway to countless incredible experiences within a drive of an hour or two. From there, you can take daily trips to some of the most beautiful villages in all of Greece, such as Metsovo or captivating Zagorohoria, filled with breathtaking landscapes and charming stone houses.” 

Kalamata, a city well-known for its olive production, is a place where travelers can get lost — in the best way possible. Come stroll its winding cobblestone streets, explore the castle, and visit museums like the Modern Greek Art Gallery for a well-rounded city escape in the Peloponnese region.

Kalambaka, a city located in central Greece, is famous for its unparalleled view of the stunning Meteora. The city sits at the base of the towering rock formations topped with historic monasteries that date back as early as the 11th century. The complex of monasteries is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and you can visit many for a small fee.

There are more than 6,000 Greek islands , and while many come with small populations, the island of Rhodes is positively metropolitan thanks to the city of Rhodes. Home to some 50,000 people, the city is famed for its ancient history and the duality of its New Town and Old Town. While there’s nothing wrong with New Town, Old Town is a walled-off time capsule to the past, and it's one of the largest remaining medieval settlements in Europe.

Nafplio, located in the eastern Peloponnese, is a seaside dream packed with Venetian architecture to explore. As Alys Colayera, lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato , shared, it’s a “great place to wander through the old alleyways, grab a strong cup of Greek coffee at a local coffee shop in the square, and take a boat to Bourtzi Castle if you are interested in architecture and history.” As for the name of the town, Visit Greece explained that it comes from its mythological founder, Nafplios, one of Poseidon's sons.

One more island city to explore is Chania on the island of Crete. It too is famed for its Venetian harbor and quaint old town. Explore its cobblestone streets, duck into museums like the Maritime Museum of Crete , and shop for souvenirs in its endless boutiques. Pro tip: Leather goods are famously great here, so go ahead and splurge on a bag or a pair of shoes. 

While Larissa has a population of more than 130,000 people, it remains a place well in touch with Mother Nature. This city in central Greece is an agricultural hub, growing vegetables, grains, fruits, and more, so it's a great place to dig into some Thessalian cuisine. While in town, explore the Ancient Theatre of Larissa , dedicated to the god Dionysus, to learn more about the area's ancient history.

History abounds in the southern city of Corinth, thanks to well-preserved ruins including the iconic Temple of Apollo and the Acrocorinth fortress. Just an hour from Athens, Corinth and the surrounding coastal towns make a perfect day trip from the capital city, says Colayera.

If you’re making your way to the islands, odds are you’ll pass through the port city of Piraeus. Dozens of ferries come in and out of the harbor each day, but before you board one, spend a little time exploring the city by visiting places like The Hellenic Maritime Museum , which showcases Greece's rich seafaring heritage.

Head north along the Aegean coast to Kavala, a hillside city with gorgeous beaches, sweeping vistas, and an exciting mix of ancient history and modern city life. You can’t miss its imposing aqueduct, which runs for almost 1,000 feet and dates to the 16th century. Once you’re done viewing that, head straight to The Acropolis of Kavala to learn more about this city’s fascinating history.

Find the party in Patras, a university port city in western Greece. Yes, of course, you’ll find history here, including inside the Archaeological Museum of Patras , which showcases goods from the surrounding region dating back to prehistory. But in Patras, you’ll also find a bustling (and modern) nightlife scene across several neighborhoods, including down Riga Feraiou Pedestrian Street, where you can snag a delicious bite of Greek food, too. 

Explore one of the most beautiful places in Greece when you plot a trip to Corfu Town on the eastern coast of the island of Corfu. Here, travelers can explore the historic architecture that earned Old Town of Corfu a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Tour the fortresses, stroll through the town’s central market, and visit Spianada Square, the largest square in Greece.

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The best holidays to book for May 2024, from boating in France to Greek island relaxation

Whether an active uk staycation or a mediterranean fly and flop, there’s a trip that suits however you wish to spend a month with two bank holidays, article bookmarked.

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Two bank holidays and the half-term school break make May a busy month if you’re planning a springtime getaway. Half term falls during the last week of the month, leaving three other weeks when the prices won’t go through the roof. Enjoy the sandy beaches and wide open spaces of Pembrokeshire and the tranquillity of the Isle of Wight ’s coastline and countryside if you want a holiday that’s closer to home.

Southern Europe will be warming up and getting summery. That’s your cue for a lazy boating holiday on the canals of southern France , or an island idyll in the Bay of Naples. Lose yourself in the rich culture and superb food of Istanbul, or hole up on a Greek island in a child-friendly resort that gives parents as much of a break as the children. Whatever type of holiday you want to book in May, you’ll find some incredible ideas here.

If you’re travelling with preschool children and want to beat the half-term price hikes at the end of the month, book one of the villas at Mousses Crèche and Kids’ Clubs on the Ionian island of Lefkada . You’ll get the chance to relax in the pool surrounded by lush gardens while the kids join the children’s clubs and get free childcare (apart from half-term week). There’s a taverna, too, if you don’t fancy cooking. Simpson Travel has a week’s self-catering in a two-bedroom villa from £557pp, based on two adults and two children sharing, including flights, car hire and welcome pack; departs 5 May.

Read more on travel inspiration :

• The UK’s best spring walks to make you feel alive
• Where to go to see Banksy’s art around the world
• Barcelona for Valencia and other holiday swaps to make to avoid the crowds

Isle of Wight

Make the most of spring’s freshness in the Isle of Wight on a walking break with HF Holidays . You could time your visit for the 25th edition of the annual Isle of Wight Walking Festival, which runs from 11–19 May. But there are plenty of walking routes from your base at Freshwater Bay House, ranging from gentle strolls to more strenuous hikes. A four-night self-guided holiday any time from 1–18 May costs from £605pp, and from £580pp during the rest of the month. The price includes breakfast, packed lunches and evening meals. Wightlink has regular ferries to the island from Lymington and Portsmouth.

May is an ideal time to visit endlessly fascinating Istanbul , with pleasantly warm days instead of scorching summer temperatures. Stay at the Radisson Blu Istanbul Pera and you’ll have the buzzing bars and restaurants of Beyoglu and Karaköy to explore as well as wonderful views of the Golden Horn from the hotel’s restaurant. There’s also a spa where you can unwind in a hot tub and indoor pool. Away Holidays has a four-night room-only break departing 18 May from £502pp, including flights and a free room upgrade.

Slow down the pace with a laidback self-drive boating holiday in southern France, which even boating novices can do. Get to know the landscapes and wildlife of the Petite Camargue and Languedoc as you meander along the Canal du Rhône à Sète. Stop in Aigues-Mortes and Sète as you see how much distance you can travel in the course of a week, making most of the fabulous seafood along the way. Nicols has a week’s boat rental in a two-cabin cruiser departing 10 May from €1,038, including tuition; fuel and mooring fees are extra.

Before the crowds descend on the Neapolitan Riviera and its islands, get a delicious taste of spring on the volcanic island of Ischia . At the Hotel Le Querce , east of Ischia harbour, you’ll have heavenly views of the Bay of Naples from the open-air thermal pool. May is an excellent time to explore the island’s rugged interior on foot. Citalia has a five-night holiday on a room-only basis from £844pp, including flights and transfers for a 12 May departure.

You’ll have Tenby’s north beach and the pretty pastel-coloured houses of the harbour on your doorstep when you stay at Beachscape. This airy three-bedroom apartment in a 19th-century townhouse has beautiful views of the Pembrokeshire coast from almost every room as well as its balcony. It sleeps six comfortably over two floors, and also features two bathrooms. Classic Cottages has a five-night rental starting 4 May from £784.

Mary Novakovich is editor at large at  101holidays.co.uk

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Three Minors Die, 19 Migrants Rescued at Greece's Chios Island

Three Minors Die, 19 Migrants Rescued at Greece's Chios Island

ATHENS (Reuters) -Greece has recovered the bodies of three minors and rescued 19 migrants after their dinghy hit rocks at the island of Chios in the Aegean Sea near Turkey, the coastguard said on Wednesday.

Greece has been a favoured gateway to the European Union for migrants and refugees from the Middle East, Africa and Asia since 2015 when nearly 1 million people landed on its islands.

Numbers dropped significantly before rising again last year to 41,561 arrivals by sea. Some 10,163 migrants have reached Greece by sea so far this year.

(Reporting by Alkis Konstantinidis; Writing by Angeliki Koutantou; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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